Focus Energy

The EU wants to be climate neutral by 2050. By 2030, CO2 emissions are to be reduced by 55 per cent compared to 1990. At the same time, it is essential to secure the power supply, keep industry competitive and improve air quality.
Jülich scientists are modelling scenarios to find out how these goals can be achieved. They make recommendations for a future energy system that is based on renewable energies and develop technologies for it.

Hydrogen plays a key role in this: it is intended to replace fossil fuels, store energy, enable mobility and serve as a basic material for the chemical industry – efficiently and cost-effectively. In addition, it should also be “green”, that is, produced with the help of renewable energies. Jülich research on this topic is diverse, ranging from material development for electrolysis plants, fuel cells and solar modules to the investigation of electrochemical processes and the transport, storage and use of hydrogen. Batteries are indispensable as energy storage devices. Jülich researchers optimize established systems and develop new battery types. Forschungszentrum Jülich is also pursuing a value chain for the research into technologies for storing excess electricity in high-energy chemicals, for example for use as fuel.

The energy system is one of the most important human influences on the climate and the atmosphere - regionally and worldwide. Jülich scientists investigate the exact effects of these influences by studying physical and chemical processes in the atmosphere. With their experimental findings and computer simulations, they further develop existing climate models, act as experts and advise politicians and the public on necessary measures.