With its new energy management system, the institute aims to continuously reduce its energy consumption. Jens Bernstein, energy manager at Fraunhofer IZI, explains: “To achieve this, we continuously monitor all work processes and procedures for their use of energy as well as their energy-related output, and we monitor all energy flows”. The institute advocates the sustainable and efficient use of energy and implements measures to ensure compliance with the Fraunhofer Society’s sustainability targets.

The Fraunhofer Society has committed itself to achieving a neutral greenhouse gas balance by 2030: This means emissions have to be reduced by 55% as against the 2019 level, and all other emissions will be compensated for. The further reduction of emissions to almost zero will be continued until 2045.

In addition to the optimisation of all processes, Fraunhofer IZI will commission a 150 kWp photovoltaic (PV) system in 2025 as a further step to reduce emissions. The PV modules, which were installed on the roofs of all three buildings at the Leipzig site this year, have different orientations so that, once they are put into operation, they are able to generate solar power for the institute’s own consumption all day long - without CO2 emissions or generating noise and particulate matter.

With these steps, Fraunhofer IZI is making an important contribution to saving resources and actively supporting the Fraunhofer Society’s climate targets. 

More information on the Fraunhofer Society’s understanding of sustainability and climate strategy.