Innovation in Energy Systems
Energy systems are undergoing a radical transformation as societies strive to shift towards more sustainable forms of energy. Energy transitions are complex, long-term processes typically unfolding over decades. Historical shifts - like wood to coal, or coal to oil - have taken 40-70 years. However, with deliberate policy support, transitions can potentially be accelerated. Research reveals several crucial insights about how energy innovations emerge and spread, and how they can be sped up. This talk will focus on lessons from successful energy innovations and the role of policy "mixes" (i.e. combining different types of support) in driving such innovations.
Maria Sharmina is Professor in Energy and Sustainability at the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research in the School of Engineering, University of Manchester. She is a Co-Director at Policy@Manchester, the University's sector-leading policy engagement institute. Her research focuses on innovative business models and techno-economic assessments in a range of sectors including energy systems and sustainable buildings. Maria served as Senior Academic Advisor with the UK Government Office for Science and Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS), working on the Net Zero Foresight project from 2021–2023. Maria’s educational background is in economics and statistics.
Speaker
Maria Sharmina is Professor in Energy and Sustainability at the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research in the School of Engineering. She is a Co-Director at Policy@Manchester, the University's sector-leading policy engagement institute. Maria is a member of the Strategic Advisory Team for the UK Research & Innovation (UKRI) Digital Security & Resilience Theme, and a member of the Sustainable Robotics Committee at the British Standards Institution (BSI).
The Power of Innovation for Sustainability
The "Heidelberger Brücke" lecture series for the Winter Semester 2024/2025 focuses on "The Power of Innovation for Sustainability." Featuring leading experts from various fields, the series will explore how innovation ecosystems, nature-based solutions, sustainability reporting, and energy system advancements are driving sustainable development.
The Heidelberger Brücke series is designed to bridge the gap between academic research and practical solutions for sustainability challenges. By bringing together scientists, industry leaders, and policymakers, it fosters interdisciplinary discussions that lead to innovative approaches.