Topics

The topics of our research are as diverse as the challenges of climate protection. Here you will find a selection of the topics on which we have been working in depth for many years and which we will continue to attach great importance to in the years to come. Find out what relevance our legal work has. Find out more about the projects in which we are working on the individual topics. Discover which publications we have published and which lectures we have given. We cordially invite you to immerse yourself in the world of the Environmental Energy Law Foundation on the topic of your choice!

Many other aspects and legal issues are included in various topics. Elementary requirements such as energy efficiency and digitization are integral components of various of our topics presented here. We are already working on a wide range of other areas that are not listed here and are developing them further so that they shape our work more. The right to turn around in traffic is just as much a part of this as the transformation of industry. We would be very happy to develop further topics together with you, within the framework of joint projects or by promoting our work.

Acceptance

Without acceptance, the transformation process of the energy transition cannot be successfully ensured. Maintaining participation and a fair distribution of costs and benefits is a crucial task for the legal framework of the energy transition.

Authorisation

Constructing and operating wind turbines, electricity transmission lines or energy storage facilities requires lengthy and complex authorisation procedures. As a consequence, permits become a decisive factor in the success of the energy transition.

Electricity production

Electricity from renewable energy sources is the deciding factor for electricity generation in Germany and in the EU.

Energy storage

Energy storage serves as a flexible option for energy surplus and thus plays a major role in the energy system. Alongside its integration, however, major legal questions arise.

Europe

Environmental energy law in Germany is intertwined with European law in many aspects. The latter does not only increasingly provide the regulatory framework but often applies directly in the EU member states.

Fundamental questions

The goal of greenhouse gas neutrality requires fundamental changes to the legal framework.

Grids

Electricity and gas grids are at the core of the energy transition, especially taking into account the ongoing electrification.

Heating

While often overlooked, the heating transition's significance cannot be underestimated.

Hydrogen

Renewable – or ‘green’ – hydrogen can be a key to decarbonising all sectors. However, the legal framework of the hydrogen economy – including electrolysis, imports as well as transport and use – is not yet existent.

Land use

Another important factor for a regulatory framework enabling renewable energy sources is dealing with land use.

Markets

The energy transition is an unprecedented transformation process that will create new markets and business models. As a foundation for these developments, the right legal framework needs to be put in place.

Sector coupling

Climate neutrality will require joint efforts regarding renewable electricity, heating, transport and industry. Reforming regulation on electricity price components represents the first step – but others have to follow.