Batteries' relevance and societal impact are determined by their application, going from early application to full-scale transition. Understanding these processes draws at a socio-technical system perspective, at the boundaries between engineering and social science. It requires understanding the technology and its value and impact, as well as the sector, stakeholders, and societal developments. This is incredibly challenging as new types of batteries and new applications are emergent technologies, and inherent uncertainties of the future need to be accounted for. Potential applications are considered: electric vehicles, maritime batteries, and heavy-duty transport. This research is carried out in the Technology, Innovation, and Society group of the Industrial Engineering and Innovation Science faculty.
Impact and circularity assessment
New types of batteries are being developed, and new applications are being found. But what is their impact and value? Are they sustainable? Are they circular, or should the criticality of materials be accounted for? This research focuses on assessing emerging technologies under uncertainty. It includes methods like Life Cycle Assessment to evaluate environmental impact, Multi-Criteria Assessment to assess broad feasibility, potential or sustainability, criticality indicators, and scenario studies.
Assessment for decision-making
This research focuses on decision support for strategic decision-making and governance. It requires assessment methods guided by values and preferences. The assessments focus on what stakeholders need to know to make decisions and take action. This can make assessments more effective and efficient while improving the decision-making process. This research can involve participatory approaches or relate to societal debate. It focuses on different scale levels: from project or company to sector.
Socio-technical systems: adoption of technology
This research focuses on how new technologies find initial application and subsequently conquer the market, building on innovation theory and transition studies. Typically, it requires considering broader societal developments, the status of the sector, and the regulatory or policy context. The focus is on a combination of short-term developments, feasible actions, and long-term radical innovations.