IEB associate researcher Andreas Löschel will lead a pioneering study on citizen behaviour in the face of the energy transition that has been awarded one of the grants awarded annually by the ATRAE programme, managed by the State Research Agency (AEI).
The work, applied to the reality of Spain, will provide scientific data and proven methodologies to this great challenge of the sector. It is entitled ‘Promoting the energy transition through the correction of cognitive distortions, the provision of co-benefits and the promotion of delegation’. The project addresses the behavioural, economic and institutional barriers that limit further electrification. Specifically, it aims to accelerate the energy transition in Spain by correcting the misperceptions of citizens and politicians; harnessing the local benefits of renewable energy; and increased willingness to delegate energy decisions to integrate renewable electricity generation into energy systems.
ATRAE is one of the main initiatives of the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities to attract international talent and position Spain as a global scientific benchmark. The 2025 call has allocated nearly 40 million euros, with a strong attraction of international talent (83% in the 2025 edition). Only two projects in the field of economics have been selected to receive this aid. Löschel’s project will be developed within the framework of the UB Chair of Energy Sustainability, academically integrated into the IEB.