Your work spans energy systems, mobility and data. How do these areas fit together in your research?
They are inseparable. We study how to design energy systems that integrate solar power, storage, and charging infrastructure, but technology alone isn’t enough—it has to work as a whole. That’s where data becomes essential. By linking generation, consumption, and market information, we can align charging and energy use with grid conditions in real time. Electromobility is a great example: It’s not just about installing chargers but also ensuring that companies, households, and the grid benefit from smart, coordinated use.
Beyond building charging points, what does true integration of electric vehicles into the energy system look like?
True integration means that electric vehicles become active parts of the energy economy. With projects like Banula, we are developing ways to allocate charging data to the right market players, so costs and electricity flows are transparent and fair. Integration also requires connecting charging infrastructure to energy management systems on-site, so companies can balance renewable power with demand. Looking ahead, bidirectional charging will be key—cars that not only consume electricity but also feed it back into the grid when needed. That’s the next big step.
Energy transition is often discussed in terms of cost. From your perspective, what are the real challenges we must resolve?
Costs are crucial, but the bigger challenge is security of supply. We must ensure stable power even when there’s no wind or sun—so-called “dark doldrums.” That requires flexible backup capacity and possibly seasonal storage. Another key challenge is interoperability: No matter where you plug in, your car should be able to charge and, eventually, feed energy back. If we solve these issues, the energy transition can succeed. And when comparing costs, we should remember the hidden price of fossil fuels: emissions, nuclear waste, and dependency risks.
What drives you personally to keep working on these issues?
For me, it began with the fascination of emission-free cars in the 1990s. Over time, I realized renewable electrification is the most efficient solution wherever possible. What motivates me today is that this work is both technically challenging and socially vital. Our prosperity depends on reliable, clean energy, and contributing to that is meaningful. I also hope to inspire more young people to choose STEM careers—because their ideas will shape the breakthroughs of tomorrow.