Meet the Team

In our series “Meet the team” we introduce you to the staff at EIZ and give you a chance to get to know the great people better who are working hard to create the sustainable, connected and digitalised energy system of the future.

Dr Tim Franken completed his doctorate in mechanical engineering at the Brandenburg University of Technology on the topic of ‘Multi-criteria optimisation of stochastic motor models’. Since 2023, he has been working as a research group leader in the field of ‘Process optimisation of power-to-X-to-power systems’ at the Energy-Innovation Centre.

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

My research group is investigating innovative power-to-X-to-power energy systems for the storage of renewable energy. A power-to-X-to-power storage system produces green hydrogen from renewable electricity and converts it into synthetic methane with the addition of carbon dioxide. If required, the methane is converted into electricity and heat in a combined heat and power process.  The advantages of this energy storage system are It is carbon-free and enables a resilient and seasonal energy supply in energy grids with 100% renewable energies. To this end, the group is developing thermochemical models to optimise the processes of the energy storage system using computer-based methods. We use the results in our laboratory for the development of an energy storage demonstrator, with which the technology is to be further developed to a higher level of technological maturity together with industrial partners.

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

Our research group trains the next generation of scientists and engineers who will drive the development of sustainable energy storage systems in the future. We also publish the results of our research in renowned specialist journals and present them to experts at (inter)national conferences and trade fairs. In this way, we promote the transfer of knowledge with research groups and companies that can utilise our results for their own development. At the same time, EIZ SPARK is creating one of the most dynamic start-up scenes in Germany, whereby innovative ideas from our laboratory are transferred into new products and technologies that help drive forward 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?

Characterised by inventiveness and cultural diversity, Lusatia is developing into one of the most dynamic regions in Germany in the field of research and development of energy technologies.

4. What makes working at BTU special for you?

Together with a team of young scientists and engineers, we work on promising ideas for energy technologies at the Energy Innovation Centre.  The opportunity to help shape this development process is incredibly exciting and a great challenge that allows you to grow personally.

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

You should definitely have done a cycle tour along the Spree floodplains and Spremberg dam in summer. The Kutzeburger Mühle is a wonderful place to round off the tour.

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