Expertise

Climate & Energy

Addressing climate change smartly and consistently.

The energy system is by far the largest contributor to anthropogenic climate change worldwide. Transforming this system while maintaining the capacity of the economy and at the same time the prosperity of society is one of the most significant tasks in countering climate change.

Energy transition means meeting climate targets without neglecting security of supply and affordability. The extension of renewables, increased energy efficiency, and the import of climate-friendlier energy sources must be as effectively organised as CO2 storage. Those who are, at the same time, designing measures to adapt to the climate change that is no longer avoidable, are acting responsibly.

But where is the potential for regenerative energy sources greatest? How do political instruments and current crises impact demand, emissions and prices? How can we sustainably meet increasing demand due to electrification or in passenger and freight transport? What promising business models are emerging?

We develop decision-making principles – with our strategic competence developed over decades, our unique models, our leading expertise, and our communication strength. Together, we look towards a future worth living – and let it become a reality.

Energy System & Climate Protection


To curb global warming, greenhouse gas emissions must be avoided. This requires a transformation of the energy system.

Power & Renewables


Expanding renewable energies is crucial to achieve the climate targets. The backbone of the energy system transformation: the electricity system.

Heat & Energy Efficiency


Increasing energy efficiency and the decarbonisation of the heating market are two of the most important strategic tasks for a successful energy transition.

Fuels & CO2


Large consumers such as the steel industry and air traffic must be supplied with fuels today and in the future. While climate-damaging natural gas and mineral oil products currently dominate, climate-friendly energy sources are soon to play a more significant role.

Climate Adaptation


A strategy for dealing with climate change must be built upon two pillars: mitigation and adaptation.

Our work on this topic

Take a look at our latest projects and activities.

Electricity price forecast 2023

2023
| Project

In the medium and long term, average wholesale electricity prices are above the 2019/2020 level. Our updated scenarios for the vbw.

Article in "Die Volkswirtschaft": EU reaction to electricity prices

2023
| News

The liberalisation of the electricity markets in the EU was once supposed to reduce costs. Sven Kreidelmeyer writes in the Swiss magazine "Die Volkswirtschaft" about the effects of free competition and current developments in the European electricity sector, among other things.

Economic efficiency of heat pumps

2023
| Project

For a paper by Environmental Action Germany, we provided case studies on the question of whether the switch to heat pumps in typical single- and multi-family homes is more economical than exchanging gas boilers.

Decarbonisation of raw materials industries in Germany

2022
| Project

A study for the Bertelsmann Stiftung shows which climate policy measures can best support the switch to low-emission production processes.

Gas balance: Saving efforts must be intensified

2023
| News

If savings continue to be as low as in January and February, the risk of a gas shortage will in-crease in the coming winter.

Accompanying research on the FONA strategy

ongoing
| Project

The Research for Sustainability (FONA) funding programme is intended to contribute to the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Will this target be achieved and which methods can be used to measure this? We investigate this together with partners for the BMBF.

Gas consumption in Germany’s production sectors

2023
| Project

One potential building block: the Federal Network Agency commissioned Prognos to conduct a study that can support the necessary assessment in the case of gas shortages.

Background paper for a buildings strategy for climate neutrality

2023
| Project

How can existing buildings become climate-neutral by 2045? On behalf of the BMWK, we devel-oped scenarios and develop measures.

Gas balance: Too little is being saved

2023
| News

Although German gas storage tanks remain at good levels, our vbw monitoring revealed that sav-ings due to behavioural changes were no longer detectable.

Accelerated climate protection does pay off

2023
| Project

If the expansion of renewable energy and the implementation of efficiency measures are ac-celerated, electricity prices will fall more quickly, and the GDP will grow faster. These were the findings of our short study for the INSM.

Overall impact of climate change, mitigation and adaptation on the German economy

ongoing
| Project

For the first time, an expert report for the Federal Ministry of Economics will jointly assess the economic impact of climate change, mitigation and adaptation.

Ecological transformation and the labour market in Schleswig-Holstein

ongoing
| Project

How many specialists will Schleswig-Holstein need to implement its climate protection measures? What are the key professions necessary for successful implementation?

Sustainable end-of-life vehicle recycling

ongoing
| Project

Circular economy in practice: As part of the MaterialLoop project, we have been working with Audi and TSR on how more materials from end-of-life vehicles can be used in the production of new vehicles.

DG REGIO – Evaluation of the European Green Deal

ongoing
| Project

How effective has the EU cohesion policy been in driving green change in Europe? This and other questions are being investigated jointly with COWI, Milieu, and CSIL, on behalf of the European Commission (DG REGIO).

Mild weather in winter takes off the pressure

2023
| News

So far, Germany has made it through the winter with relatively little gas. But savings will still be necessary if a gas shortage is to be prevented.

Policy Paper MEPS: Minimum efficiency standards for existing buildings

2023
| Project

Energy-efficient building renovation is an important part of achieving climate protection goals in the buildings sector. A brief summary of the role of MEPS within this context.

11th Energy Transition Monitoring

2023
| Project

Our data shows: As the expansion of renewable energies has been particularly paralysed, a lot still needs to happen in the coming years if Germany is to achieve its energy and climate goals.

Regulation of third-party access to heating networks

2022
| Project

The EU Commission wants to make third-party access to district heating networks mandatory. We assessed the consequences for Germany and the possible contribution to decarbonisation on behalf of the BMWK.

Interview with the Neue Zürcher Zeitung

2022
| News

Energy expert Dr Almut Kirchner talks to the Neue Zürcher Zeitung about the Swiss energy system.

Evaluation and further development of the national Emissions Trading System (nETS)

2022
| Project

On behalf of the Federal Environment Agency, we are developing suitable approaches for the impact assessment of the nETS together with the FÖS and the DIW.

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We provide high quality work. Using sound methods, we analyse economic and political developments. For projects and processes, we provide solution-oriented and empathetic support. We have over 60 years of experience in a wide range of disciplines and provide consultancy with vision and expertise.

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