The research project focused on municipal utilities which, as local and municipally owned energy suppliers, play an important role in the implementation of the energy transition. The energy transition with its trends towards decarbonization and decentralization is already forcing them to rethink their existing business model, revise strategies and adapt capabilities to survive within the new circumstances.

Digitalization, as the central transformation trend of the present, will bring about serious changes for the economy and society in the coming years and will significantly increase the pressure to adapt in the energy sector, either through changed customer preferences or the rise of new competitors. Municipal utilities can shape this digital change, but require far-reaching innovations in their classic business model.

The research project investigated what the business models of the future of municipal utilities will look like, to what extent this energy transition and digitalization can be used as an opportunity for themselves and at the same time reduce the risk of losing the supremacy of customers.

Project Management: Prof. Dr. Christian Busse

Scientific Assistant: Julien Minnemann, M.A.

Funding: Ministry of Science and Culture of Lower Saxony

Funding Programme: “Pro*Niedersachsen" with the funding line "Research Projects in the Humanities, Cultural and Social Sciences”.

Duration: 01.10.2019 until 31.03.2024