Meet the Team

Dr Niklas Ziemann studied economics, sociology and international areas studies at the Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg with a focus on environmental economic assessments of ecosystem services. He then completed his doctorate at the University of Potsdam in the field of behavioural economics, applying experimental economic methods. Since 1^st November 2022, he has been working at the Energy Economics (EECON) Lab of the Energy Innovation Centre as an academic assistant, developing laboratory experiments to make the social acceptance of the energy transition measurable. In addition, he teaches the course Resource Economics at BTU in the winter semester and has organised the research seminar of the Department of Energy Economics since the summer semester 2023. Since 1^st  July 2024, he has been group leader of the Young Investigator Group ‘Acceptance of the energy transition from a behavioural economics perspective’.

1. What topics are the researchers in your group working on?

We are investigating which factors influence the acceptance of infrastructures for solar and wind energy, CCS and (green) hydrogen. We are also researching the flexibilisation of energy consumption.

2. How does this research contribute to advancing the energy transition?

Our research results show political decision-makers which adjustments (e.g. information, participation formats) can be made to increase acceptance of the energy transition.

3. Lusatia is undergoing change. What is your personal vision for Lusatia in 2050, what do you wish for the future development of this region?

I hope that Lusatia will remain economically successful, liveable and socially secure even without lignite.

4. What makes working at BTU special for you?

I find it exciting to carry out applied research in a region that is undergoing a transformation process. Furthermore, the atmosphere at BTU and within my research group makes it easy for me to enjoy working in Cottbus.

5. What are your personal highlights in Cottbus? What should you definitely try out when you are here?

I recommend the Weltspiegel cinema in Cottbus to anyone who likes going to the cinema. In addition, the Altmarkt is always a good idea for eating, drinking and hanging out.

Thank you, Niklas, for the interview and all the best for your research work!