When Systems Analysis meets International Collaboration

At the 2026 FZJ-NST Joint Workshop at Forschungszentrum Jülich, many contributions explored technological advances, from electrolysis to AI-driven materials discovery.

Within this context, a complementary perspective came from Dr Imke Rhoden (Institute of Climate and Energy Systems ICE, Jülich Systems Analysis ICE-2), who brought a regional economic lens to the discussion. Her presentation on regional energy transition and economic effects in Germany highlighted that transforming energy systems is not only about technologies, but also about reshaping regional economies and societies, particularly in the context of the Rhenish lignite phase-out.

This perspective adds an important layer to predominantly engineering-focused approaches: understanding how infrastructure, labour markets, policy and innovation interact in real-world transitions.

A memorable moment came at the start of her talk. Having just returned from a research stay in South Korea, Imke opened with a greeting in Korean, creating an immediate sense of connection in the room.

The themes also resonate beyond Germany. Questions around regional transformation and industrial transition are equally relevant in South Korea, making this exchange particularly valuable for collaboration with partners such as National Research Council of Science and Technology (NST).

Takeaway: International collaboration benefits from connecting perspectives as much as from advancing technologies.