Publications in IJPSC

2026

1. Research Article · Vol. 2, No. 2

   AI-based competitor dossiers as a strategic competitive advantage in the insurance industry

   Patrick Hedfeld, Sascha Pohl, Dietmar Pfaff

   doi:10.61030/TPIX9191 PDF

   Abstract

   Rising energy costs, volatile electricity markets, and geopolitical uncertainties are reshaping the economic conditions of the manufacturing industry. Energy is therefore no longer perceived merely as an operational input, but increasingly as a strategic factor affecting competitiveness, resilience, and location quality. This article examines how energy self- sufficiency through solar energy is perceived and implemented in the manufacturing sector and identifies differences between Germany and China. The study is based on a qualitative, exploratory research design comprising six written expert surveys and a supplementary PESTEL analysis. The findings indicate that, in industrial practice, energy self- sufficiency is rarely understood as complete independence from the public grid; rather, it is perceived as a gradual and measurable reduction in external electricity demand. Photovoltaics seldom unfolds its strategic potential in isolation, but primarily as part of an integrated system consisting of storage, energy management, and load control. The main drivers include cost reduction, cost stability, security of supply, and resilience, while major barriers arise from grid connection procedures, approval processes, regulatory complexity, and investment constraints. The article thus demonstrates that PV-based self-sufficiency is far more than a sustainability technology for industrial firms; it is increasingly becoming an instrument of industrial risk and competitiveness management.

   Keywords Photovoltaics; energy self-sufficiency; manufacturing industry; self-sufficiency; energy management; Germany; China; qualitative research

2. Perspective · Vol. 2, No. 1

   Between the Cost Crisis and the Energy Transition: Why PV Self-Sufficiency Is Becoming a Strategic Competitive Factor for Industry. Results of a Qualitative Study Comparing Germany and China

   Dietmar Pfaff, Sascha Pohl, Patrick Hedfeld

   doi:10.61030/FMKU5576 PDF

   Abstract

   Rising energy costs, volatile electricity markets, and geopolitical uncertainties are reshaping the economic conditions of the manufacturing industry. Energy is therefore no longer perceived merely as an operational input, but increasingly as a strategic factor affecting competitiveness, resilience, and location quality. This article examines how energy self-sufficiency through solar energy is perceived and implemented in the manufacturing sector and identifies differences between Germany and China. The study is based on a qualitative, exploratory research design comprising six written expert surveys and a supplementary PESTEL analysis. The findings indicate that, in industrial practice, energy self-sufficiency is rarely understood as complete independence from the public grid; rather, it is perceived as a gradual and measurable reduction in external electricity demand. Photovoltaics seldom unfolds its strategic potential in isolation, but primarily as part of an integrated system consisting of storage, energy management, and load control. The main drivers include cost reduction, cost stability, security of supply, and resilience, while major barriers arise from grid connection procedures, approval processes, regulatory complexity, and investment constraints. The article thus demonstrates that PV-based self-sufficiency is far more than a sustainability technology for industrial firms; it is increasingly becoming an instrument of industrial risk and competitiveness management.

   Keywords Photovoltaics; energy self-sufficiency; manufacturing industry; self-sufficiency; energy management; Germany; China; qualitative research

2025

1. Research Article · Vol. 1, No. 2

   SMARTAI ENERGY: Artificial Intelligence for the Optimization of Renewable Energies – Education, Research and Future Prospects

   Patrick Hedfeld, Dietmar Pfaff

   doi:10.61030/IJPSC.25.v02pp01 PDF

   Abstract

   Academic education in AI-driven renewable energy systems is evolving rapidly, propelled by digitalization, interdisciplinary collaboration, and technological advancements. Online platforms and international research networks enhance access to specialized content and facilitate global networking among students and researchers. Concurrently, collaborations between universities, industry, and research centers foster practice-oriented training formats that bridge theory and practice.​ Innovative technologies like Edge AI are being integrated into energy research to maximize the efficiency of future renewable energy systems. The persistent demand for skilled professionals in this domain necessitates continuous curriculum adaptation, particularly concerning practical projects, regulatory frameworks, and ethical considerations.​ This study examines the challenges and opportunities in academic education related to AI and renewable energies, highlighting how technological innovations can drive the energy transition.​

   Keywords SMART Renewable Energy; Artificial Intelligence; Optimization; Green Energetics; Research; Future​

Research areas

• Crisis Management 2
• Innovation 2
• Organizational Change 2
• Resilience 2
• Psychology 2
• Strategic Communication 2

Article keywords Photovoltaics; energy self-sufficiency; manufacturing industry; self-sufficiency; energy management; Germany; China; qualitative research; SMART Renewable Energy; Artificial Intelligence; Optimization; Green Energetics; Research; Future​

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Affiliations

As stated in the articles at the time of publication; not necessarily the current position.

Co-authors

• Dietmar Pfaff 3
• Sascha Pohl 2