Socio‑technical simulation game for the transformation of the electricity sector
If you are interested in trying to tackle and engage one of the most pressing issues for society, then this project may be for you. We are aiming to create a multi-disciplinary team that will map, analyse and decide how to gamify an issue that is currently affecting Europe.
In order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the aim is to increase the share of renewable energies in the electricity sector. The introduction of renewable energies involves considerable investment. At the same time, however, this may reduce operating costs in the future. As a result, it is not possible to achieve a significant reduction in emissions and total costs at the same time. This will make it more difficult to reach the necessary social consensus. As part of the project, students are trying to identify solutions to this conflict. The solutions should take both technical and social aspects into account.
Project description
If you are interested in trying to tackle and engage one of the most pressing issues for society, then this project may be for you. We are aiming to create a multi-disciplinary team that will map, analyse and decide how to gamify an issue that is currently affecting Europe. Renewable energy affects all aspects of sustainability. The environmental side is the most obvious as it aims to reduce emissions from traditional ways of creating electricity for example. However, these types of investments require considerable capital and although there is a possibility that costs may be reduced in the long term, the prospect of economic sustainability is challenged in the short term. There are of course social aspects to include – for example NIMBYism, lobbyism amongst others. As part of the project, students will try to identify solutions to this conflict. Use your multi-disciplinary skills to create a game that could realistically show the challenges and possible solutions to this issue.
Study areas
Since the project deals with topics that affect everyone's reality, all students can participate and contribute their perspectives. Nevertheless, the following competences might be helpful: The project group should be interdisciplinary. Ideally, it should include students from the fields of engineering, economics, and social sciences.
- Energy technology
- Conflict management
- Communication science
- Economics
- Psychology
Contact
Vincent Farell, Mid Sweden university
Marcus Eek, Hochschule Osnabrück: