Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
In this section, we’ve compiled answers to common questions about NFDI4Energy and the services we are building.
If you can’t find the information you’re looking for, please feel free to reach out via one of the two options below. We welcome suggestions for additional questions and will continuously expand this FAQ to better support the NFDI4Energy community.
If you need personalized support, reach out to us through our help desk for service related inquiries or through our contact page for general requests.
General
What is NFDI?
The National Research Data Infrastructure (NFDI) is a nationwide initiative that aims to systematically manage and make research data accessible, usable, and sustainable across all disciplines in Germany.
How are NFDI and NFDI4Energy related?
NFDI4Energy is one of 26 consortia operating under the umbrella of the NFDI. Each consortium focuses on improving research data management (RDM) practices within its respective discipline. Together, and under the guidance of the NFDI Association, these consortia work to strengthen RDM across the entire German research landscape.
What is the goal of NFDI4Energy?
NFDI4Energy is dedicated to advancing research practices in interdisciplinary energy research, especially research data management and research software engineering. It develops and provides services that support RDM processes, complemented by educational and collaborative activities designed to foster a cultural shift toward more open and sustainable research practices.
What target groups does NFDI4Energy address?
Our main target group includes energy researchers and scholars from related disciplines. Since energy research is highly relevant to both industry and the public sector, NFDI4Energy also dedicates entire task areas to collaboration with these stakeholders (Task Area 1: Energy research community; Task Area 2: Public sector; Task Area 3: Industry).
NFDI4Energy Terminology
What is RDM and why is it important?
Research Data Management (RDM) refers to the organization, storage, preservation, and sharing of research data. Research Data Management (RDM) is important because it ensures that research data are organized, secure, and reusable, enabling transparency, reproducibility, and long-term value of scientific work. Learn more in the Learning Essentials for RDM section of our website.
What is an ontology and how can it help me with my work?
Ontologies provide structured vocabularies that help describe and connect research concepts consistently. Lear more about ontologies in the dedicated ontology section.
What is a metadata schema and how do I use one?
A metadata schema defines the structure and meaning of metadata, ensuring research data can be found, understood, and reused. Visit our metadata schema section to learn more.
Services and Resources
What services does NFDI4Energy offer?
You can explore our services on the Service page, where we list tools, platforms, and resources that support every step of the RDM process.
Do I have to pay or subscribe to use the services?
No. All NFDI4Energy services are currently available free of charge.
Where can I store my energy data to share it with the community or support my publication?
You can use the Leibniz Data Manager or the Open Energy Database for storing and sharing your data.
What is “Energy Data Storytelling”?
Energy Data Storytelling helps researchers and stakeholders communicate energy data in accessible, narrative-driven formats to enhance understanding and impact. In NFDI4Energy, Task Area 2 covers this topic.
Do you offer RDM workshops or training?
Yes. Visit our practical Resources section to find the RDM Course for Energy System Research, designed to make RDM approachable.
Community and Collaboration
How can I participate in NFDI4Energy?
There are several ways to get involved:
- Institutions can join the consortium in the NFDI (KgS) to actively shape our development or apply for FlexFunds to pursue specific project ideas.
- Everyone is welcome to join our yearly NFDI4Energy Conference and contribute to the discussions.
- Everyone is welcome to sign our Memorandum of Understanding (soon on our website) to show support and become part of the community.
How can students get involved?
Students can:
- Contact task area leads or the coordination office to discuss thesis collaborations
- Join the PhD Network
- Use our services during their studies
- Become a showcase by applying RDM practices in their research projects (contact our Task Area 6 lead)
What’s a good starting point for students to learn more about RDM in energy research?
Start with our Learning Essentials and Recommended Resources sections. These introduce key concepts and lead you to the RDM Course for Energy System Researchers, suitable for building practical knowledge. You can then apply what you learn using our services and become a showcase (contact our Task Area 6 lead).
Where can I get personalized support?
- For questions about our services, please contact our Help Desk.
- For organizational inquiries, visit our Contact page.