Modern energy management means intelligent network management and the use of renewable energy sources (e.g. photovoltaics, energetic biomass). This requires sustainable and cost-effective technologies for energy generation, storage and usage. Distribution grids and feeds must become grid-friendlier, and the building sector must become climate-neutral.

The Institute of Sustainable Energy Systems (INES) is the main contributor to this focus. INES is based at the Research and Innovation Center of Energy Technology (RIZ Energie) on the Offenburg Campus.