B. Schäfer, KIT

Bioeconomy activities are localized at the Helmholtz centers (FZJ, KIT & UFZ) in different research fields (Energy & Earth and Environment) and programs (Changing Earth, MTET, ESD). The CCA enables better networking among the scientists. Key topics of the joint work are: 1.) Sustainable production of plant raw materials and their modification in coupling with subsequent utilization steps; 2.) Processes, process chains and products using hybrid approaches;  3) The circular economy approach integrates the production & utilization of renewable carbons for the different utilization & conversion pathways; 4.) Development of spatially explicit renewable energy and biomass scenarios and assessments.

Scientists from the Helmholtz centers DLR, FZJ, HZB, HZDR, KIT & the associated IPP are working together on different aspects for the successful supply & use of hydrogen by means of solar-based heat & electricity. Topics such as, production, use, purity & pressure requirements in the application spectrum from low temperature fuel cells to synthesis of liquid fuels & LOHCs as well as safety aspects are investigated.  Methodological aspects such as modeling of functional layers and flows during electrolysis as well as plasma-assisted H2 generation are further key areas of interest.

BS, HZDR & KIT

Scientists from the ESD & MTET programs of the Helmholtz centers DLR, FZJ, HZDR, HIF, KIT are teaming up to address the challenges for industrial production arising from energy transition & circular economy. The focus is on the cycles of metallic & mineral bulk raw materials. Methods & models for the design & operation of energy-intensive recycling processes as well as their associated network & material value chain integration are to be developed. The goal is a comprehensive closure of material & energy cycles together with a grid-serving, economical operation of industrial production based on renewable electricity. This project follows the recommendations of the strategic evaluation review panel to more closely integrate energy system design activities (in ESD) & circular economy activities (in MTET).

KIT

The cross-sectional activities of KIT, GFZ and UFZ on geoenergy connect scientists across Helmholtz research field boundaries (Energy with Earth and Environment). Central platforms of cooperation are joint research infrastructures.  One prioritized infrastructure still in the concept stage is the GeoLaB. Work on DeepStor facility at KIT is about to start.  Collaboration focuses on drilling, geochemistry, monitoring, heat grids & public acceptance.  Furthermore, there are joint projects on urban heat management, e.g. in Berlin, Potsdam and Leipzig (GeoFern, geoPuR, ...) in cooperation / synergy with DeepStor.