Claudia Kemfert

Claudia Kemfert is a leading academic and researcher, serving as Head of the Department of Energy, Transport, and Environment at the German Institute for Economic Research (DIW Berlin) and as Professor of Energy Economics and Energy Policy at Leuphana University. She previously held professorships at the Hertie School of Governance and Humboldt University.

Her research focuses on the economic implications of climate change and the energy transition. Her primary interests include Energy Economics, Climate Policy, Environmental Economics, Renewable Energy, and Sustainability. She employs empirical modeling to analyze the macroeconomic effects of environmental instruments and energy policies, with a strong emphasis on policy advice and public communication.

The analysis of her recent publications reveals a consistent and impactful research agenda centered on the energy transition, climate security, and the economic modeling of energy systems. Her work frequently addresses current policy debates, such as the security of supply, the management of nuclear waste, and the geopolitical risks of energy dependence, demonstrating her role as a key science-policy interface.

Her scientific excellence has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards, including:

• Being named a top researcher in the 'Elf of Science' program (2006)
• The Urania Medal and BAUM Environmental Prize (2011)
• The German Solar Prize and Adam Smith Prize (2016)
• The Environmental Media Prize and Bavarian Environmental Prize (2022)

Prof. Kemfert is a prominent advisor, having served on the German Advisory Council on the Environment and as an advisor to the President of the European Commission. She leads a large research department and a significant portfolio of national and international projects, such as 'Ariadne2' and 'Social-ecological transformation index'. She is also a dedicated public educator, creating the 'Kemferts Klima Podcast' to communicate scientific findings on climate change to a broad audience. Her work bridges rigorous academic research with direct societal and political impact.