New hub for research and networking | IKEM March 2023 Newsletter

IKEM | March 2023 Newsletter

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New hub for research and networking

Hi ,

In this month’s issue of the newsletter, we’d like to introduce you to IKEM's newest department, the Research Academy. Dr. Greta Reeh, who heads the department, spoke with us about what her team is working on – and what makes it unique. You’ll find our video interview below.

This issue also shares highlights from the Research Academy’s recent comparative law conference, which brought together many of the field's leading figures to discuss the potential for a common European energy transition.

Read on for more on this and other exciting updates, including the kick-off of a new autonomous driving project, the release of position papers on water conservation and photovoltaic systems, and the awarding of Germany’s highest honour – the Order of Merit – to Dr. Friedrich Hagemeyer, IKEM’s co-founder, for distinguished service in promoting applied research.

We hope you enjoy the read!

Until next time,

The IKEM Communications Team

Meet the team: Research Academy

'The Research Academy is the central hub for IKEM's fundamental research and networking activities.'

– Dr. Greta Reeh, head of IKEM's Research Academy

The Research Academy serves as the central research and networking hub for IKEM's fundamental research. It conducts research on various legal, economic and political science issues related to climate change and offers training and educational opportunities for young Ph.D students.

Dr. Greta Reeh has headed the Research Academy since October 2021. In a recent interview, she spoke with us about her department, its current projects and the impact of its work.

News

A photovoltaic system on every car park?

A French regulation will soon require the installation of solar canopies above large car parks throughout France. Could Germany introduce a similar requirement? IKEM's analysis suggests that fundamental legal questions would need to be resolved before Germany could take this step.

IKEM releases position paper on the Federal Cabinet's new National Water Strategy

Germany's new National Water Strategy outlines targets and measures designed to secure the water supply and conserve water resources by 2050. Given the urgency of the issue and the enormity of the task at hand, the German government must still resolve many unanswered questions, IKEM concluded in a recent analysis.

Sustainable building and renovation requires binding regulations, report finds

A report released by IKEM and the German Energy Agency (dena) concludes that, while there are legal provisions addressing sustainability in the building sector, an overly complex system – consisting of European and national regulations and technical standards – has resulted in a lack of transparency.

Green light for AHOI research project

The AHOI research project aims to deploy a fleet of autonomously and manually controlled vehicles on the roads of Hamburg’s Harburg borough by 2025. IKEM will conduct legal research for the project, which is part of a broader effort to automate the city's on-demand service and integrate it into the public transport system.

Order of Merit awarded to IKEM co-founder

Dr. Friedrich-Wilhelm Hagemeyer was recently awarded the Order of Merit for his services in promoting applied research in Greifswald. The prize honours Dr. Hagemeyer's many contributions to research, including his role in founding IKEM.

IKEM events in March

Forum examines current and future trends in the heat transition

Forum Wärmewende 2023, organised by IKEM, brought together experts from the energy industry, policy and practice to discuss a planned reform of Germany’s Buildings Energy Act. The next forum will take place on 27 June 2023 in Brussels. Stay tuned for further details, including information on how to register!

Energy transition for all – by all!

At the March ENGAGE meeting, partners discussed project updates and next steps – including the upcoming launch of the Energiewende-O-Mat, an interactive tool designed to facilitate decision-making and serve as the primary point of contact for individuals interested in participating in Germany's energy system transformation.

Visit ENGAGE website

Comparative law conference examines potential for European energy transition

On 16–17 March, IKEM's comparative law conference brought researchers, experts and other interested parties to Berlin and Greifswald to discuss energy laws in various European countries and explore the potential for a common energy transition.

Cruising towards a greener future

CAMPFIRE project partners held an online workshop to discuss new regulatory options for the green shipping industry and examine potential avenues to European cooperation on the use of green ammonia.

Upcoming events

H2EXPO & CONFERENCE

On 28–29 June 2023, prominent figures in the global hydrogen industry will meet in Hamburg to exchange views on key challenges facing the energy industry.

Climate Democracy Day

The slogan for this year's Climate Democracy Day is, ‘Hello, Bundestag, we need to talk!’ The event encourages citizens, associations and organisations across the country to speak with members of the German Bundestag. To join in, submit a question via the event's website!