Research focus 1: Dynamics in production networks
The transformation of industry has begun and brings with it far-reaching changes in the temporal and spatial organization of production networks. The investments required for this are not determined solely by economic considerations, but are influenced by political framework conditions and individual decisions. In contrast, short-term production planning and plant utilization are largely determined by various markets that are heavily influenced by government regulations.
In our research focus on dynamics in production networks, we are investigating how the energy transition and defossilization affect the production networks of energy- and resource-intensive basic industries. The focus here is on several closely interlinked topics:
- Long-term spatial effects: How does industrial transformation change the geographical distribution of production capacities and trade relations? For example, the expansion of renewable energies could lead to energy-intensive industries locating in regions with high availability of green energy - with effects on Europe and regions that are currently heavily dependent on raw material extraction.
- Volatility in energy and commodity markets: Fluctuations in the availability of renewable energy, commodity prices and volatile product markets affect production and global supply chains. These volatilities have an impact on plant utilization and pose challenges for the stability of business models and employment.
- Resilience of production systems: We aim to investigate how resilient production networks are to sudden shocks, such as energy shortages or commodity crises. This resilience is crucial to ensure the continuity of production processes and plays a central role in investment decisions.
- Role of infrastructures: How do existing and future infrastructures - such as energy and transport networks - influence the organization of production networks? Not only the expansion of electricity grids for renewable energies is important here, but also the adaptation of logistics and distribution networks for decentralized production.
Responsible for the research focus:
Dr. Clemens Schneider (Researcher)
- Telephone
- +49 561 804-7090
- clemens.schneider[at]uni-kassel[dot]de
- Location
- Mosenthalstr. 8
34117 Kassel
- Room
- 3004