Computer Science students (B.Sc./M.Sc.) have the opportunity to pursue a minor in Sustainability Management offered by the School of Business, Economics, and society. The required number of ECTS credits for this minor can be found in the section below. Please note that being listed in this course selection does not guarantee enrollment in the modules.
Contact: Prof. Dr. Markus Beckmann, markus.beckmann@fau.de
Bachelor of Computer Science
As part of the minor in Sustainability Management for Bachelor’s students of Computer Science, a compulsory elective area with 15 ECTS must be taken. Students choose three of the following modules:
Module name: 87002 Introduction to Sustainability Management/ 86920 Einführung in das Nachhaltigkeitsmanagement
Vorlesung: 5ECTS
Lecturer: Prof. Dr. Markus Beckmann, Marlene Lasthaus
Method of Examination: Written Examination
Language: Summer semester: in German, Winter semester: in English
Contents
The course starts by clarifying essential foundations: What is sustainability, and why is it an increasingly relevant concept today? How do companies contribute to sustainable development, and what are the implications for the job of sustainability management? What is the business case for sustainability, that is, what are the drivers for and benefits of taking a proactive approach to sustainability management?
After this general introduction, we will briefly look at widely established standards and norms that provide specific instruments for managing sustainability across firms and corporate functions.
Building upon these foundations, the central part of the course serves to zoom into the business firm and refine our analysis concerning various corporate functions. How do sustainability issues influence and interact with specific business functions such as marketing, production, accounting, supply chain management, human resources, finance, reporting, or strategy? How can these functions and their key instruments help to understand sustainability challenges better and realize sustainability goals? At the same time, we discuss how the specific perspective of sustainability can help to better adjust conventional corporate functions to the complexity of the current market and stakeholder demands.
Throughout the lecture and exercise, we will follow the concept of integrated sustainability management, thus integrating the three pillars of sustainability: economy, naturalenvironment, and society, into the core activities of business value creation.
Students will acquire
Knowledge in sustainability management an understanding into the interdependencies of various corporate functions, particularly in the context of sustainability
Learning objectives and skills
discursive and reflective competencies in regards to societally relevant questions practical insights for implementing sustainability in real-life applications insights on potential challenges during the implementation of sustainability management
Module name: 86981 Sustainability management: Issues, Concepts and tools, 5 ECTS, Vorlesung
Lecturer: Prof. Dr. Markus Beckmann
Method of Examination: Written Examination
Language: English
Contents
Sustainability management is a multi-faceted concept that encompasses many topics and issues. These range from climate change to the fight against poverty. The purpose of this lecture is to gain a deeper understanding of such critical issues in sustainability management. To this end, the lecture does not only shed light on selected sustainability trends and the background of these challenges. More importantly, the course also aims at a systematic understanding of relevant management tools and novel instruments across all corporate functions to cope with these sustainability issues. The three sustainability issues addressed in this class will be climate change, resource scarcity, as well as poverty and underdevelopment. For each of these issues, we will first engage with background details, their positive and negative consequences, and their potential challenges and opportunities for businesses. Following, we will address broader concepts in sustainability management that aim at addressing the sustainability issue. In a third step, we will then introduce concrete tools and instruments that is how-to knowledge for implementation. To illustrate, in the case of climate change, we look at the science, politics, economics, and effects on companies. We then look at concepts such as putting a price on carbon or decarbonizing value creation. Regarding management instruments, tools such as carbon accounting, carbon compensation, and carbon efficiency measures will be di cussed. Bestpractice and worst practices serve to illustrate the practical implementation of these instruments.
Learning Objectives and skills
Students
- acquire advanced knowledge and skills in corporate
sustainability management - learn to relate current societal challenges and trends with
corresponding sustainability concepts and management tools
in selected problem areas - acquire and advance critical thinking and discursive skills with
regard to societal and stakeholder communication - advance their analytical and pragmatic decision-making skills
in situations of high complexity - deepen their understanding of the business firm as a problemsolving entity
Module name: Fundamentals of Environmental Economics, 5 ECTS, lecture with seminar
Examination method: Written exam (90 min)
Language: German
Instructors: Prof. Dr. Klaus Georg Binder
Content
The course focuses on the fundamentals of environmental economics.
The first part examines the factors contributing to environmental pollution. In addition to general socioeconomic conditions, it specifically addresses the pressure that development places on the environment. The second part analyzes environmental issues from the perspective of growth theory. Key components here include the post-Keynesian and neoclassical approaches, as well as the economic theory of natural resources. The third part focuses on sustainable development, before the fourth part subjects the economic incentive instruments of national and international environmental policy to a critical analysis. Finally, the fifth and last part of the lecture is devoted to the
economic valuation of environmental goods and environmental damage. In addition to the direct method (willingness to pay), various indirect methods (travel cost method, hedonic prices, etc.) are presented.
Learning Objectives and Competencies
Students
- will acquire a solid understanding of the fundamental issues in environmental economics.
- will develop an understanding of the impacts of environmental policy measures.
- will become familiar with methods for the economic valuation of environmental goods and environmental damage.
- will be able to critically evaluate the theories presented.
Module name: 85773 Corporate Reporting, Business Analytics and Sustainability, 5 ECTS, Seminar
Studon: www.studon.fau.de/crbas
Language: Englisch
Lecturers: Prof. Devrimi Kaya
Module name: 85774 Corporate Reporting, Business Analytics and Sustainability, 5 ECTS, Seminar
Studon: www.studon.fau.de/cg
Language: Englisch
Lecturers: Prof. Devrimi Kaya
Module name: 85786 Energy Industry and Sustainability, Vorlesung, 5 ECTS
Language: German
Method of Examination: Written Examination
Lecturer: Prof. Gregor Zöttl
Content
This course provides a fundamental overview of the key economic aspects of energy markets and examines in detail their role in a sustainable transition in the context of climate change. Given the planned electrification of the transportation sector (e.g., electric vehicles and hydrogen) and the heating sector (e.g., heat pumps), the electricity sector plays a central role in this context. A key focus is on explaining how electricity markets function and conducting quantitative analyses of them. The challenges arising from this will be discussed and also analyzed quantitatively.
Module name: 86781 Climate and Resource Economics, 5 ECTS, lecture + excercise
Language: German
Method of Examination: Written Examination (90min)
Lecturer: Prof. Mario Liebensteiner
Content
This module provides an introduction to the key aspects of climate and resource economics, often with a strong focus on energy markets. The course draws on microeconomic principles to address central topics related to climate policy, greenhouse gas emissions, and renewable and fossil resources. The course is largely structured in a theoretical-normative manner (what would be optimal?), but also provides a positive-empirical overview (what is the status quo?). An understanding of the key aspects of climate and resource economics is, for example, of central importance for the analysis and further development of climate policy measures.
Key course elements include, for example, emission avoidance cost curves, emissions as a negative externality, pricing of emissions (Pigou tax), allocation of emission allowances (Coase theorem), political uncertainty (Weitzman theorem), the concept of sustainability, growth models with and without renewable resources (Hotelling’s rule, the Green paradox).
Learning Objectives and Competencies
Students
- can identify and analyze the most important issues in climate and resource economics.
- understand the advantages and disadvantages of various climate policy measures
- understand the specific characteristics of emissions avoidance (costs, benefits, individual cost curves, etc.) and their influence on policy decisions
- understand how resource prices and depletion paths can be reflected in energy markets and what implications these have for environmental policy
- recognize problems that are not obvious at first glance (e.g., the green paradox; adverse effects of direct government market interventions, e.g., in the form of guaranteed feed-in tariffs for renewable energies; etc.).
Module name: 85759 Trade and Sustainability, 5 ECTS, Seminar
Language: English
Lecturers: Prof. Johan Liliestam
Content
In this course, we will look at how global trade impacts the environment and economic development. Using case studies of different products like soy, solar panels, and steel, we will look at trade between Europe and Brazil, China, the US and more. The course will explore how different actors including country governments and businesses react to sustainability and development changes, and supply chain regulation. By the end of the course, students will be able to compare how these cases compare with theories about international trade. They will understand under which contexts globalization has positive or negative environmental impacts, and consider supply chain management in terms of environmental and reputational risks. They will also better understand regulations like CBAM, the CSDDD, and Lieferkettengesetz, and how these affect European businesses’ position in global markets.
Introduction
- The EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism and Circular Economy plan
- Globalization and its environmental and social impacts
- Value chains and supply chains: reputational and security risks for business
- Trade, development and the environment in theory
- Competing theories: is free trade good or bad for the environment and development?
- Types of trade interventions: direct (standards, tariffs, bans) and indirect (subsidies, public procurement)
- Trade governance: the rules of the game
- International, regional/national, business and civil society governance: from the World Trade Organization to voluntary standards
- Case study: international soy trade: Brazil’s soy exports and their impacts on Amazon deforestation
- Trade agreements, voluntary standards, the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence regulation and German Lieferkettengesetz
- Case study: international solar panel trade: Solar panel production shifting to China from Germany with both positive and negative environmental and social impacts
- Protectionism, trade wars, and friend-shoring
- Case study: international steel trade: The history of steel and why it’s political; the rise of new steel producers including China, India and Ukraine
Lerning Objectives and Competencies
Students can define sustainability issues and describe how increased trade affects the environment and the economy in different settings. Students can analyze the environmental and social impacts of trade, taking a life cycle approach to whole value chains. Students can critically evaluate why environmental impacts of trade are higher in some locations than others. They can assess why some countries have been able to successfully develop local industries; and evaluate the economic, environmental and social impacts of these developments. Students can evaluate the potential effects of European regulations on EU businesses, trade, and the environment including the CBAM, CSDDD and Lieferkettengesetz. They can propose strategies for businesses and governments to make their supply chains both more globally competitive and more sustainable.
Module name: 85714 European Climate Policy, 5 ECTS
Language: English
Method of Examination: Presentation and Oral Examination
Lecturer: Prof. Johan Liliestam
Module name: 85717 Energy Security, lecture & excercise, 5 ECTS
Language: English
Method of Examination: Presentation & Oral Examination
Lecturer: Prof. Johan Liliestam
Content
Energy is central to almost any area of human activity and necessary for economic activity. The energy crisis of 2022, triggered by the war in Ukraine, impacted the global and national economy, and especially energy intensive businesses, with energy supply uncertainty and high prices. Without energy, the industrialised world would be dramatically altered. Moreover, energy is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions, resulting in climate change. Key questions that we will address include: How can we ensure that all people and businesses have reliable and affordable access to sufficient energy for their needs? How can this be achieved on a sustainable basis? In what ways can energy be used as a tool for diplomatic coercion? And what are the
geopolitical consequences of energy supply and the shift to low-carbon energy sources? The goal of this course is to enable students to discuss and critique strategies to enhance energy security, for both countries and individual companies, based on concepts and approaches in the study of energy security (incl. International Political Economy and Geopolitics studies) during lectures. These concepts from the lectures are practically applied during the exercise portion of this course, diving into the characteristics of different energy sources (e.g. oil, gas, nuclear, renewables), energy producer and consumers (who are they?), energy markets (how do they work?), energy conflicts (can energy be used as a weapon?) and trends in energy (is hydrogen the solution?). We will use case studies/ scenarios to conduct analyses on energy and sustainability actions and their impact national/European energy security (e.g. in individual deals, such as the consequences for German energy security of the chemical concern BASF’s gas trade deals; or security effects of broader trends, such as climate policy- driven electrification of heat and transport). Combined the lectures and exercises will equip students with a framework for understanding and analysing the stakes and tradeoffs involved in addressing the practical energy challenge of ensuring secure, sustainable and affordable access to energy supplies needed for the oral exam, which will include a mix of concepts and practical problem solving in the energy domain. In addition, this dual approach will assist in navigating the international business environment when dealing with energy and sustainability questions.
Learning Objectives and Competencies
At the end of the course, students will be able to understand and discuss the (geopolitical) dynamics between current energy policy development, energy supply and climate policy, including their importance both for the national economy and for companies. Students will be able to assess impacts themselves, and propose solutions based on current developments in international energy politics, while paying attention to the broader historical background.
Module name: 85754 Technology Assessment, Seminar, 5 ECTS
Language: Englisch
Method of Examination: Paper & Presentation
Lecturer: Prof. Johan Liliestam
Content
In this course, we will explore, discuss, and apply interdisciplinary quantitative and qualitative concepts and tools for technology assessment. Technology assessment is an essential support tool to inform decision-making in companies and public administration and enables well-informed decisions regarding technology adoption, implementation, or regulation. Below are the interdisciplinary methods to be covered in this course. In addition, the course will focus on how each method can be combined and how normativity affects each method.
Qualitative approach: SWOT analysis and Stakeholder analysis
Quantitative approach: Cost-benefit analysis (CBA) and Multicriteria analysis (MCA)
This course will also focus on method comparisons (i.e., when and in which context method A outperforms method B), so the strengths and limitations of each method will be discussed in the classes. The course will strongly focus on application (hence the combination of lecture and exercise). Empirically, the course will focus on, but not be limited to, technologies for the transition to clean energy, such as renewable energy, carbon capture and storage, and hydrogen. This will visualize how to apply and combine tools necessary for technology assessment. The results from each example will be compared so that risks and opportunities for technologies can be analyzed.
Learning Objectives and Competencies
At the end of the course, the students are able to:
- formulate the whole process of technology assessment
analysis. - apply/combine tools for technology assessment in different
contexts. - discuss and critique different (energy) technologies and
methods. - evaluate the risks and opportunities of technologies.
Module name: 86146 Data-driven behavioral interventions for sustainability, Seminar, 5 ECTS
Language: English
Method of Examination: Paper & Presentation
Lecturer: Prof. Verena Tiefenbeck
Content
This seminar offers an introduction to behavioral insights that can help developers build more effective IS in the sustainability domain and beyond. It covers important psychological, social, cognitive, and emotional factors that need to be considered in state-of-the-art IS design. Participants will become familiar with concepts to “nudge” users. Participants will also discuss ethical aspects (i.e. the fine line between manipulation and honest support) and transfer the learnings to exemplary applications that can promote energy efficiency.
Furthermore, you will also become familiar with reading scientific papers, practice writing scientific reports, and learn how to better present your work in class.
Learning Objectives and Competencies
The research seminar prepares students for their Bachelor thesis, so that they are able to answer a concrete research question in the field of digital transformation.
More specifically, students …
- understand important behavioral theories
- get a first impression on theory testing
- relate the insights to practical challengess
- understand the limitations of the theories
- structure and plan a research-related assignment
- read and evaluate scientific publications
- write a scientific report
- use and cite literature sources
- present research findings to an audience
Module name: 85764 Digital Transformation in the Energy and Mobility Sector, lecture, 5 ECTS
Englisch: Englisch
Method of Examination: Klausur
Lecturer: Prof. Verena Tiefenbeck
Content
The module covers the role of Information & Communication Technologies (ICT) in the energy transition towards a more sustainable energy production and consumption, with a particular focus on energy efficiency, the integration of renewable energy sources into the electric grid, and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The interdisciplinary module covers fundamental technical principles of conventional and renewable energy generation and sustainable energy consumption, assesses the role of ICT in the ongoing energy transition, and evaluates economic and societal challenges and implications of the approaches covered.
Specific topics include:
– Fundamentals of energy generation and consumption
– Conventional and distributed power generation
– Introduction to energy markets and economic aspects
– Smart grid and smart metering infrastructures, virtual power plants, energy communities
– Wireless technologies and their impact on future mobility and energy networks
– Demand side management and home automation
– Changing consumer behavior with smart ICT
– Smart heating, electric mobility
At the beginning of the course, fundamental principles of energy generation and consumption are taught, so that students without prior knowledge in the field of energy can successfully participate in the course.
NEW: Passing two ungraded short tests during the semester is mandatory for the successful completion of the module, in addition to passing the written exam at the end of the semester.
Learning Objectives and Competencies
The module is designed to enable participants to
- explain the basic physical and technical principles of energy generation and power grids and apply them in calculations
- state, explain, and evaluate the necessity as well as challenges associated with the integration of renewable energies
- name components of a smart grid and explain their function
- explain fundamental market mechanisms (energy economics)
- understand and be able to explain the roles and intentions of the actors in the electricity market
- examine components, market mechanisms and regulatory measures with regard to their costs, benefits and risks and critically assess evaluation approaches
- explain the possibilities of information systems for the reduction of energy consumption in the field of indoor climate/heating and to evaluate them
- explain the central components, variables, requirements and challenges of electromobility and explain how information systems can contribute to solving these challenges
Modulbezeichnung: 85778 Political Ecology, Seminar, 5 ECTS
Sprache: English
Method of Examination: Class participation (20%), Presentation (40%), Short written assignment (ca. 2,000 words per person; 40%).
Lecturer: Prof. Almut Schilling-Vacaflor
Content
We live in an age of accelerated resource extraction. Oil and coal are heavily extracted to accommodate our
energy needs, iron and copper facilitate new industrial developments and minerals such as lithium, cobalt and nickel power our tablets, smartphones and electric vehicles. Resource extraction spurs economies in the Global South and facilitates employment in rural areas. Yet, it also pollutes bodies and environments, displaces people, encroaches on other land uses and exacerbates inequality. In other words, resource extraction plays a key role in shaping societies and ecologies across the world. The study of resource extraction has thus gained traction among social scientists, invigorating cross-scalar research, as resource
extraction is deeply entrenched in translocal trade relations, colonial legacies and globalised discourses. In this course, we will explore how resource extraction alters livelihood opportunities, power relations, profit distribution and landscapes, and we will discuss the methodological and analytical implications of studying resource extraction. We will approach resource extraction as a livelihood, a capitalist endeavour, an embodied practice and a sociomaterial phenomenon, and we will draw on concepts such as extractivism, resource enclaves, resource potentiality, resource frontiers, non-human agency and geosociality. The course will be based on seminars, group work, presentations, and discussions.
Learning Objectives and Competencies
Achieve a deeper understanding of the cross-scalar impacts of resource extraction, including its environmental and social implications
- Gain theoretical and empirical knowledge on the supply chain
complexities related to the extractive industries - Strengthen analytical competences by applying social science
concepts and theories to analyse different cases of resource
extraction - Gain insights into the different forms of resource extraction,
including artisanal mining and large-scale mining
Last updated: März 27, 2024 Page 227 - Learn to identify and discuss sustainability challenges and
trade-offs in relation to resource extraction
Module name: 85724 Transnational Business Governance for Sustainable Development, Seminar, 5 ECTS
Language: English
Lecturer: Prof. Almut Schilling-Vacaflor
Content
Transnational business has contributed to economic growth and to provide consumers with better access to goods and services. However, multinational companies and global supply chains have also been associated with or have contributed to the violation of human rights and environmental damages. In this course, we will focus on the question of how transnational business can be governed in a way that contributes to socially and ecologically sustainable development. In four thematic blocks, we will analyze and discuss different governance approaches that aim to steer transnational business towards sustainability: 1) multilateral governance instruments, 2) private and voluntary sustainability standards, 3) state regulations of global supply chains and 4) civil-society led and multi-stakeholder governance initiatives. To analyze these instruments, we will refer to concepts such as effectiveness, legitimacy and accountability. We will also discuss how different governance instruments can be fruitfully combined and how they can be implemented in different contexts using case studies. This course will consist of input provided by the lecturer, the reading and discussion of academic literature, interactive group exercises, presentations on specific governance instruments by students and an expert talk guided by seminar participants.
In the lectures of the “(FA)U for Sustainability” series, researchers from various disciplines will explore aspects of sustainable living and action, current research, and societal challenges.
Based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, topics such as health, resource and raw material use, as well as economic, technical, and sociocultural developments will be addressed.
More information at: https://www.green-office.fau.de/2024/03/27/ringvorlesung-nachhaltigkeit/
Master of Computer Science
As part of the minor in Sustainability Management for master’s students in computer science, students must complete a required elective track worth 15 ECTS credits. Students may only enroll in modules that they have not already taken during their bachelor’s program. Students must select three of the following modules:
Module name: Sustainability Management & Corporate Functions, 5 ECTS, Vorlesung
Lecturer: Prof. Dr. Markus Beckmann
Method of Examination: Written Examination
Language: English
Content
This lecture provides an advanced perspective on Corporate Sustainability Management. The lecture starts with a short recap of sustainability management basics (What is sustainability? Why is sustainability increasingly important for business? What are key concepts of sustainability management?) Following this brief recap of the concepts of sustainability and sustainability management, we take a closer look at selected corporate functions such as strategy, marketing, or supply chain management. For each function, we look at the key drivers for corporate sustainability, relevant management tools, best-practice cases, and will discuss risks and opportunities involved in corporate management.
Learning objectives and skills
Students will acquire:
- advanced knowledge in sustainability management, especially in the selected functional areas
- discursive and reflective competencies in regards to societally relevant questions
- practical insights for implementing sustainability in real-life applications
- insights on potential challenges during the implementation of sustainability management
Module name: Fundamentals of Environmental Economics, 5 ECTS, lecture with seminar
Examination method: Written exam (90 min)
Language: German
Instructors: Prof. Dr. Klaus Georg Binder
Content
The course focuses on the fundamentals of environmental economics.
The first part examines the factors contributing to environmental pollution. In addition to general socioeconomic conditions, it specifically addresses the pressure that development places on the environment. The second part analyzes environmental issues from the perspective of growth theory. Key components here include the post-Keynesian and neoclassical approaches, as well as the economic theory of natural resources. The third part focuses on sustainable development, before the fourth part subjects the economic incentive instruments of national and international environmental policy to a critical analysis. Finally, the fifth and last part of the lecture is devoted to the
economic valuation of environmental goods and environmental damage. In addition to the direct method (willingness to pay), various indirect methods (travel cost method, hedonic prices, etc.) are presented.
Learning Objectives and Competencies
Students
- will acquire a solid understanding of the fundamental issues in environmental economics.
- will develop an understanding of the impacts of environmental policy measures.
- will become familiar with methods for the economic valuation of environmental goods and environmental damage.
- will be able to critically evaluate the theories presented.
Module name: 85773 Corporate Reporting, Business Analytics and Sustainability, 5 ECTS, Seminar
Studon: www.studon.fau.de/crbas
Language: Englisch
Lecturer: Prof. Devrimi Kaya
Module name: 57473 Praxisseminar Sustainability Reporting, 5 ECTS, Seminar
Examination Method: Presentation (50%), class participation (25%) and seminar paper (25%).
Language: Englisch
Lecturer: Prof. Devrimi Kaya
Content
In this course, students will delve into case study analysis utilizing a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approach. The cases focus on corporate reporting and analysis, sustainability reporting (including ESG-ratings, value chains), and the use of IT-tools to exploit data. By engaging in analysis, discussions, and presentations, students will cultivate the ability to translate theoretical concepts into practical solutions for real-world business challenges. Each module will provide students with a variety of learning experiences. The class format combines lectures, interactive discussions, case studies and group presentations.
Learning Objectives and Competencies
Utilizing the case method, students will actively engage in the analysis, interpretation, and discussion of case studies in a practical manner. Students will acquire diverse concepts and methodologies to assess critical business scenarios and challenges. Through collaborative efforts, students will refine social competencies such as working under time constraints, handling ambiguous or incomplete data, and delivering teampresentations in English.
Module name: 86781 Climate and Resource Economics, 5 ECTS, lecture + excercise
Language: German
Method of Examination: Written Examination (90min)
Lecturer: Prof. Mario Liebensteiner
Content
This module provides an introduction to the key aspects of climate and resource economics, often with a strong focus on energy markets. The course draws on microeconomic principles to address central topics related to climate policy, greenhouse gas emissions, and renewable and fossil resources. The course is largely structured in a theoretical-normative manner (what would be optimal?), but also provides a positive-empirical overview (what is the status quo?). An understanding of the key aspects of climate and resource economics is, for example, of central importance for the analysis and further development of climate policy measures.
Key course elements include, for example, emission avoidance cost curves, emissions as a negative externality, pricing of emissions (Pigou tax), allocation of emission allowances (Coase theorem), political uncertainty (Weitzman theorem), the concept of sustainability, growth models with and without renewable resources (Hotelling’s rule, the Green paradox).
Learning Objectives and Competencies
Students
- can identify and analyze the most important issues in climate and resource economics.
- understand the advantages and disadvantages of various climate policy measures
- understand the specific characteristics of emissions avoidance (costs, benefits, individual cost curves, etc.) and their influence on policy decisions
- understand how resource prices and depletion paths can be reflected in energy markets and what implications these have for environmental policy
- recognize problems that are not obvious at first glance (e.g., the green paradox; adverse effects of direct government market interventions, e.g., in the form of guaranteed feed-in tariffs for renewable energies; etc.).
Modul name: 54324 Climate Policy, 5 ECTS,
Language: Englisch
Lecturer: Prof. Johan Lilliestam
Content
Climate change is one of the big challenges of our time, touching all aspects of society. The implication of the Paris Agreement and its 1.5 and 2 degrees targets is the complete elimination of CO2 from the energy system within the next 25 years. From a technical perspective, there are many solutions, typically relying on a bouquet of options, from wind power to nuclear power, from solar heat to passive housing. The technical side of decarbonisation is difficult, but possible. The real nut to crack is about the strategies and governance for how to achieve such a complete transformation: the policy side of climate and energy. What is to be done? For this, one needs to turn to various ideas about what a government can and should do, whether and how it should influence and steer society. On the one hand are ideas suggesting that government should play a very limited role relative to private actors and should step in only to correct “market failures”, with “market-based” interventions designed specifically around that failure. On the other hand are ideas suggesting that government must guide the transition more directly, including through public investments or radical reforms, designed to support the solutions determined to be the ones we want. And on the third hand, if such a hand exists, are ideas posing that the problem is our own consumption patterns and that these, and economic growth in general, are entirely incompatible with climate protection: only consuming radically less will help. Such fundamental issues come to the fore in climate and energy policy discussions and debates.
Modul name: 57486 Energy Policy Instruments, Seminar, 5 ECTS
Language: Englisch
Lecturer: Prof. Johan Lilliestam
Content
With the adoption of the Paris Agreement, almost all countries have committed themselves to achieving a carbon-neutral global economy by mid-century. Yet, emissions keep increasing, driven by economic growth and industrial development in emerging countries, causing a hunger for energy that is often satisfied with fossil fuels. In the industrialised world, however, emissions decrease. In Europe, emissions have decreased by some 30% compared to 1990, and in some countries much more than that. Evidently, it is possible to bend the emissions curve! Across Europe, emissions and energy demand are decreasing, and European (together with Chinese and US) policies have made renewables so cheap that they are starting to outcompete fossil fuels on economic grounds. Today, other than 10 years ago, full energy system decarbonisation seems realistic. In this course, we will explore the instrumentation of climate policy in the energy sector, especially on the European and national levels: what worked, and why? We explore how these policies interact with companies and citizens, and pay attention to positive and negative side effects, including effects on industry and economic prosperity. This is a very controversial field, both in Brussels (e.g. Green Deal vs. emissions trading!), and in national capitals (electric car mandates vs “technology-neutrality”, or the debacle of the German heating law!). The outcome of these debates will not only determine Europe’s climate footprint, but also its industrial future. In this course, we take a holistic view, dive deep into the biggest transformation since many decades, and develop solutions to it all.
Module name: 57485 – Project course: building sustainable industry in Europe, Seminar, 5 ECTS
Language: English
Lecturer: Prof. Johan Lilliestam
Content
How can European businesses develop globally competitive industries for sustainable technologies? While European firms have a head start in the “green race” for some technologies, some companies and policymakers are concerned about growing competition from China and from the US for electric vehicles, solar panels, batteries and green hydrogen. Increasingly, governments are supporting the development of the electric vehicle industry in Europe. At the same time, there is a need to quickly decarbonize our energy systems, especially for transportation which remains heavily fossil-fuel based. Therefore, policies to encourage consumers to buy and use electric vehicles are also prevalent. In some cases, these different goals could come into conflict – for example, if it is cheaper to decarbonize European transport by purchasing cheaper Chinese electric vehicles. This course explores how European governments are supporting the transition to electric vehicles and industry development. The final output of the course is a research project, which will analyze whether this policy support is helping to both build local business and/or encourage decarbonization of the transportation sector. Students do not need to have a background in data analysis or policy analysis to take this course. The beginning of the course will provide a training in this method, which will then be implemented with hands-on experience in the research project.
Module name: 57481 Energy Transition Analysis: Bridging Techno-economic, Business, and Policy Perspectives, 5 ECTS
Language: Englisch
Lecturer Prof. Johan Lilliestam
Content
As the energy transition impacts multiple domains of economic and social activities, a multifaceted analysis incorporating approaches for different scopes is essential. Through lectures and exercises, students will learn how to conduct the economic feasibility, examine business models and market dynamics, and analyze policy impacts on investment attractiveness of clean energy projects, such as (but not limited to) renewable energy, energy storage, and hydrogen. The course will also emphasize the application of analytical tools to real-world problems, enabling students to combine these tools and conduct energy transition assessments. By the end of the course, students will develop a deep understanding of the multifaceted nature of the energy transition; conduct an energy transition analysis from techno-economic, business/market, and policy perspectives; apply/combine concepts and tools to solve real-world clean energy adoption problems in different contexts; and develop policy recommendations, addressing challenges and opportunities in the energy transition.
Module name: 86146 Data-driven behavioral interventions for sustainability, Seminar, 5 ECTS
Language: English
Method of Examination: Paper & Präsentation
Lecturer: Prof. Verena Tiefenbeck
Content
This seminar offers an introduction to behavioral insights that can help developers build more effective IS in the sustainability domain and beyond. It covers important psychological, social, cognitive, and emotional factors that need to be considered in state-of-the-art IS design. Participants will become familiar with concepts to “nudge” users. Participants will also discuss ethical aspects (i.e. the fine line between manipulation and honest support) and transfer the learnings to exemplary applications that can promote energy efficiency.
Furthermore, you will also become familiar with reading scientific papers, practice writing scientific reports, and learn how to better present your work in class.
Learning Objectives and Competencies
The research seminar prepares students for their Bachelor thesis, so that they are able to answer a concrete research question in the field of digital transformation.
More specifically, students …
- present research findings to an audience
- understand important behavioral theories
- get a first impression on theory testing
- relate the insights to practical challengess
- understand the limitations of the theories
- structure and plan a research-related assignment
- read and evaluate scientific publications
- write a scientific report
- use and cite literature sources
Module name: 85764 Digital Transformation in the Energy and Mobility Sector, Vorlesung, 5 ECTS
Language: Englisch
Method of Examination: Klausur
Lecturer: Prof. Verena Tiefenbeck
Content
The module covers the role of Information & Communication Technologies (ICT) in the energy transition towards a more sustainable energy production and consumption, with a particular focus on energy efficiency, the integration of renewable energy sources into the electric grid, and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The interdisciplinary module covers fundamental technical principles of conventional and renewable energy generation and sustainable energy consumption, assesses the role of ICT in the ongoing energy transition, and evaluates economic and societal challenges and implications of the approaches covered.
Specific topics include:
– Fundamentals of energy generation and consumption
– Conventional and distributed power generation
– Introduction to energy markets and economic aspects
– Smart grid and smart metering infrastructures, virtual power plants, energy communities
– Wireless technologies and their impact on future mobility and energy networks
– Demand side management and home automation
– Changing consumer behavior with smart ICT
– Smart heating, electric mobility
At the beginning of the course, fundamental principles of energy generation and consumption are taught, so that students without prior knowledge in the field of energy can successfully participate in the course.
NEW: Passing two ungraded short tests during the semester is mandatory for the successful completion of the module, in addition to passing the written exam at the end of the semester.
Learning Objectives and Competencies
The module is designed to enable participants to
- explain the basic physical and technical principles of energy generation and power grids and apply them in calculations
- state, explain, and evaluate the necessity as well as challenges associated with the integration of renewable energies
- name components of a smart grid and explain their function
- explain fundamental market mechanisms (energy economics)
- understand and be able to explain the roles and intentions of the actors in the electricity market
- examine components, market mechanisms and regulatory measures with regard to their costs, benefits and risks and critically assess evaluation approaches
- explain the possibilities of information systems for the reduction of energy consumption in the field of indoor climate/heating and to evaluate them
- explain the central components, variables, requirements and challenges of electromobility and explain how information systems can contribute to solving these challenges
Module name: 85778 Political Ecology, Seminar, 5 ECTS
Language: Englisch
Method of Examination: Class participation (20%), Presentation (40%), Short written assignment (ca. 2,000 words per person; 40%).
Lecturer: Prof. Almut Schilling-Vacaflor
Content
We live in an age of accelerated resource extraction. Oil and coal are heavily extracted to accommodate our
energy needs, iron and copper facilitate new industrial developments and minerals such as lithium, cobalt and nickel power our tablets, smartphones and electric vehicles. Resource extraction spurs economies in the Global South and facilitates employment in rural areas. Yet, it also pollutes bodies and environments, displaces people, encroaches on other land uses and exacerbates inequality. In other words, resource extraction plays a key role in shaping societies and ecologies across the world. The study of resource extraction has thus gained traction among social scientists, invigorating cross-scalar research, as resource
extraction is deeply entrenched in translocal trade relations, colonial legacies and globalised discourses. In this course, we will explore how resource extraction alters livelihood opportunities, power relations, profit distribution and landscapes, and we will discuss the methodological and analytical implications of studying resource extraction. We will approach resource extraction as a livelihood, a capitalist endeavour, an embodied practice and a sociomaterial phenomenon, and we will draw on concepts such as extractivism, resource enclaves, resource potentiality, resource frontiers, non-human agency and geosociality. The course will be based on seminars, group work, presentations, and discussions.
Learning Objectives and Competencies
Achieve a deeper understanding of the cross-scalar impacts of resource extraction, including its environmental and social implications
- Gain theoretical and empirical knowledge on the supply chain
complexities related to the extractive industries - Strengthen analytical competences by applying social science
concepts and theories to analyse different cases of resource
extraction - Gain insights into the different forms of resource extraction,
including artisanal mining and large-scale mining
Last updated: März 27, 2024 Page 227 - Learn to identify and discuss sustainability challenges and
trade-offs in relation to resource extraction
Module name: 85724 Transnational Business Governance for Sustainable Development, Seminar, 5 ECTS
Language: Englisch
Lecturer: Prof. Almut Schilling-Vacaflor
Content
Transnational business has contributed to economic growth and to provide consumers with better access to goods and services. However, multinational companies and global supply chains have also been associated with or have contributed to the violation of human rights and environmental damages. In this course, we will focus on the question of how transnational business can be governed in a way that contributes to socially and ecologically sustainable development. In four thematic blocks, we will analyze and discuss different governance approaches that aim to steer transnational business towards sustainability: 1) multilateral governance instruments, 2) private and voluntary sustainability standards, 3) state regulations of global supply chains and 4) civil-society led and multi-stakeholder governance initiatives. To analyze these instruments, we will refer to concepts such as effectiveness, legitimacy and accountability. We will also discuss how different governance instruments can be fruitfully combined and how they can be implemented in different contexts using case studies. This course will consist of input provided by the lecturer, the reading and discussion of academic literature, interactive group exercises, presentations on specific governance instruments by students and an expert talk guided by seminar participants.
Module name: 85786 Energy Industry and Sustainability, Vorlesung, 5 ECTS
Language: German
Method of Examination: Written Examination
Lecturer: Prof. Gregor Zöttl
Content
This course provides a fundamental overview of the key economic aspects of energy markets and examines in detail their role in a sustainable transition in the context of climate change. Given the planned electrification of the transportation sector (e.g., electric vehicles and hydrogen) and the heating sector (e.g., heat pumps), the electricity sector plays a central role in this context. A key focus is on explaining how electricity markets function and conducting quantitative analyses of them. The challenges arising from this will be discussed and also analyzed quantitatively.
Module name: 52592Quantitative Methods in Energy Market Modelling, Vorlesung, 5 ECTS
Language English
Method of Examination: Klausur
Lecturer: Prof. Gregor Zöttl
Content
It is the purpose of the course to understand and quantitatively analyze the economic interaction of the players and institutions in liberalized energy markets. Liberalized electricity markets can be segmented in a regulated part (the networks) and the non-regulated parts (generation and retail) where private companies interact in a market environment. The interaction of the different agents is analyzed with computational equilibrium frameworks based the concepts applied in industrial organization. Next to the fundamental understanding of the relevant market interaction, the models allow for a quantitative analysis of proposals for the design of energy markets. The participants thus develop the tools for an autonomous assessment of currently discussed policies in liberalized electricity markets (e.g. changed support schemes for renewables, changed network tariff systems, impact of capacity markets).
The course aims at students in the field of economics /business as well as students in the fields of engineering and mathematics. An integral part of the course id formed by homework assignments conducted in groups. The ability to cooperate also beyond the classical limits of each discipline is an important qualification for the students’ careers, which should be stimulated in the context of this course.
Please bring your own laptop to the exercise lessons and download all necessary files from StudOn beforehand.
The password for the Studon-Course is „equilibrium“. Please register there and bring the material for chapters 1-3 to the first lecture, so you can make additional notes during the lecture.
In the lectures of the “(FA)U for Sustainability” series, researchers from various disciplines will explore aspects of sustainable living and action, current research, and societal challenges.
Based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, topics such as health, resource and raw material use, as well as economic, technical, and sociocultural developments will be addressed.
More information at: https://www.green-office.fau.de/2024/03/27/ringvorlesung-nachhaltigkeit/