The network

Over the past 25 years, the North Hesse region has built up extensive know-how in the field of distributed power generation and energy efficiency. Successful companies, the University of Kassel and research institutions are addressing a range of issues such as distributed power generators, environment-friendly construction, rational energy utilisation and climate-efficient production methods. deENet, comprising over 90 companies, research institutions and service providers, was founded against this backdrop in 2003.

Main activities

Based on the extensive experience of deENet member companies in the field of distributed and renewable energy systems and energy efficiency, combined with up-to-date research and development findings, deENet is able to develop technical solutions for complex supply tasks. The work undertaken ranges from concept and feasibility studies to specific planning.
deENet works with its members to develop the North Hesse region into a model for distributed energy and energy efficiency. Systems solutions that primarily leverage know-how from the region are intended to demonstrate what is currently feasible and what will be possible in the future. deENet plans to turn the topic of distributed energy generation and energy efficiency into one of the economic and social pillars of the region.
To carry out publicly funded R&D projects, the network has founded "deENet GmbH", a non-profit society for the promotion of distributed power generation technologies. The company was founded to intensify applied research on distributed energy supply technologies and measures to increase energy efficiency. In cooperation with companies and research institutions, the society is coordinating applied projects in research, development, and demonstration.

The technological focus

One particular focus of deEnet research concerns electrical systems engineering, i.e. controlling and managing distributed generation and integrating it into power supply systems. The network has set itself the goal of combining the scientific resources available in the North Hesse region in the fields of energy-optimised buildings, climate-efficient production, and solar-powered heating, cooling, and process heat with the competencies and fully-fledged cooperation structures in the field of electrical systems engineering. The objective of this structural networking, coupled with the targeted promotion of cooperative ventures, is to develop new products and services that will bring about a lasting improvement to North Hesse's regional economy and generate new jobs for the future.

Highlights

North Hesse 2020: Distributed power generation and jobs

By 2020, at least 20,000 new jobs can be created in the North Hesse region in the field of distributed power generation and energy efficiency. That is the result of a study on the regional business potential, carried out by deENet for regional companies and authorities. Based on an extensive survey of present conditions and analysing the future potential, the study describes the measures necessary to create at least 20,000 jobs by developing technological competence and implementing technologies of distributed power generation and energy efficiency widely in the region. To achieve the results described in the study, deENet will put even more effort into a professional cluster management by implementing the drafted measures into a strategic concept for the region.

100% RE Regions in Germany

On the path to widespread use of Renewable Energy (RE) sources, regions are among the most important players in Germany. In cooperation with the University of Kassel, deENet is carrying out a nationwide R&D project including scientific analysis and strategic guidance of decision makers in districts, townships, and regions which have made it their goal to obtain 100% of their energy from renewable energy sources. The project, which is supported by the German Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety, will identify and communicate the success factors necessary to achieve this goal.