Entrance of LEI Institute - Kaunas, Lithuania

Kaunas, June 6, 2924 — In June 2024, Kaunas, Lithuania, became a hub for energy experts, researchers, and policymakers as they gathered for a series of transformative workshops hosted by the European Energy Research Alliance (EERA) Joint Programmes on Energy System Integration (JP ESI) and Clean Energy Transition for a Sustainable Society (JP e3s). The workshops, held from June 3rd to 6th at the Lithuanian Energy Institute (LEI), offered a deep dive into the multifaceted challenges and opportunities surrounding the global energy transition.

Event Overview and Themes

The event highlighted the critical role of interdisciplinary collaboration and cutting-edge research in achieving climate neutrality and sustainability in energy systems. Over the course of four days, participants engaged in discussions, poster presentations, and interactive sessions focused on holistic energy system modelling, decarbonization strategies, and bridging research with real-world implementation.

Day 1: Welcome and Networking Dinner

The first day set the stage with a warm welcome and networking dinner, fostering connections among attendees from diverse backgrounds. This informal gathering provided the foundation for the collaborative spirit that defined the event.

Day 2: Sustainability in Energy Systems – Multidisciplinary Approaches

The joint JP ESI and e3s workshop on June 4th centred on sustainability in energy systems. Participants addressed the need to move beyond traditional techno-economic models, which often neglect broader environmental, economic, and social dimensions of sustainability.

Key insights from the workshop included:

• Broadening the Scope of Energy Systems Modelling: Presenters highlighted the limitations of conventional models that focus narrowly on minimizing costs under decarbonization constraints. A comprehensive sustainability assessment requires incorporating diverse criteria such as life-cycle sustainability and macroeconomic impacts​(1).
• Tackling Methodological Challenges: Discussions revolved around integrating multi-criteria decision analysis to balance conflicting objectives in energy systems, such as cost-efficiency versus environmental impact​(1).
• Poster Presentations: Participants showcased innovative solutions for constructing transition scenarios. Topics included life-cycle sustainability analysis and macroeconomic modelling, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary approaches​(1).

The day concluded with a hosted dinner, providing further opportunities for informal dialogue and exchange.

Day 3: Energy Transition in Central-Eastern Europe

The June 5th workshop shifted focus to the unique challenges and opportunities of energy transition in Central-Eastern Europe (CEE). Structured around four key sessions, the day emphasized the region's decarbonization efforts and collaboration potential:

1. Decarbonization Roadmaps for CEE:
   Experts presented insights into National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs) from Lithuania, Hungary, and Latvia. The session revealed diverse national strategies, challenges in implementation, and key differences between Eastern and Western Europe​(2).
2. Energy Modelling Challenges in CEE:
   A panel discussion addressed the limitations of current modelling tools and methodologies in the region. Speakers underscored the need for better integration of renewable energy modelling and policy-relevant knowledge transfer​(2).
3. Collaboration Opportunities:
   Participants explored joint research opportunities and future funding calls. Discussions identified shared challenges and areas for collaborative innovation, particularly through upcoming EU funding opportunities​(2).
4. From Research to Implementation:
   Case studies illustrated the gap between conceptual energy solutions and practical implementation. Examples included hydrogen valley projects and utilizing low-temperature heat sources​(2).

The interactive format encouraged active participation, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas.

Day 4: JP ESI Steering Committee Meeting and LEI Tour

The final day was dedicated to JP ESI members. The steering committee meeting addressed strategic goals for the program, while a tour of the Lithuanian Energy Institute showcased its state-of-the-art research facilities and ongoing projects. This exclusive session reinforced the critical role of institutional partnerships in advancing the energy transition​. 

Conclusion: A Step Forward for Sustainable Energy

The EERA Joint Programmes workshops in Kaunas demonstrated the power of collaboration in tackling the complexities of sustainable energy systems. By blending academic rigor with practical case studies and policy-oriented discussions, the event provided a roadmap for achieving climate-neutral, inclusive energy solutions.

This gathering underscored the importance of interdisciplinary research, regional cooperation, and bridging the gap between theoretical frameworks and real-world applications. It marked a significant milestone in the collective journey toward a sustainable and resilient energy future.

For more information on the EERA Joint Programme on Energy Systems Integration, visit EERA’s official website.