Tilburg University joins the Netherlands Energy Research Alliance
Tilburg University has joined NERA, the Netherlands Energy Research Alliance, to strengthen cooperation with other universities and knowledge institutions in the field of energy research. This cooperation fits into Tilburg University's broader strategy to stimulate research on climate change and energy issues from the social sciences and humanities.
NERA members jointly develop research agendas and advocate strong and effective research and R&D programs with research funders. They also share knowledge among themselves and with society.
Social innovation
The NERA membership fits into Tilburg University's broader strategy to stimulate research on climate change and energy issues from the social sciences and humanities. The university recently launched the university-wide Academic Collaborative Center on Climate and Energy in which the university, together with societal and knowledge partners, seeks social innovations that can contribute to the energy transition. Tackling the climate crisis requires a transition of the entire society, and social innovations are as essential to this as the technological innovations often sought first.
Change of behavior
There is a growing need for rethinking to accelerate the move away from fossil fuels with the help of innovative business models and financing instruments to create a sustainable economy. The Academic Collaborative Center on Climate and Energy aims to exchange experiences and new ideas, for example about which smart interventions can change the behavior of citizens and companies. These may also require new laws and regulations and inclusive policies to ensure that the energy transition is affordable for all.