Institute for Future Energy Consumer Needs and Behavior (FCN)
The Institute for Future Energy Consumer Needs and Behavior is a new research institute at RWTH Aachen University. It is focused on applied theoretical and empirical research in energy economics, management and policy, with a particular thematic focus on the adoption and diffusion of innovative technologies and energy consumer needs and behavior.
We apply economic and management science theory to the sustainable production and use of energy. Research is undertaken both stand-alone and in collaboration with other social, engineering and natural scientists. Explicit consideration of behavioral aspects and motives, attitudes and needs of firms, private households and governments that shape their energy-using behavior is sought for.
Strong emphasis is put on the adoption and diffusion of innovative technologies in supporting a sustainable energy development. In contrast to 'pure' academic research often found in mainstream economics (highly stylized, ahistorical), the aim is to explicitly account for the technological basis and its change and, wherever possible, socio-economic aspects.
