FAIR data principles in energy research: an empirical analysis on current practices, researcher attitudes, application barriers and practical implications

For a successful energy transition, the FAIR data principles provide an essential framework for managing and reusing energy related data for research, yet their implementation remains limited. In this explorative study, we empirically examine how energy researchers engage with energy data in relation to FAIR data principles, research data platforms, and open science practices, while acknowledging the diversity of the energy research community. Fifteen semi-structured expert interviews and a workshop with eight researchers were conducted, complemented by an explorative (typifying) qualitative content analysis. Our indicative results reveal key characteristics of the energy research community as perceived by our interviewees, which is marked by a strong inter- and transdisciplinary orientation as well as a pronounced normative orientation towards fostering a just energy transition. Furthermore, we identify five attitude types towards FAIR data principles (1) Enthusiasts, (2) Idealists, (3) Pragmatists, (4) Strategists, and (5) Resisters along with perceived barriers to their application on the micro (individual), meso (institutional), and macro (systemic) levels. We discuss specific measures to overcome these barriers for (i) publishers and funding agencies, (ii) research institutions, and (iii) platforms addressing different levels of the research landscape. In conclusion, when thoughtfully designed and strategically supported, an Energy Service Platform Ecosystem has the potential to become a cornerstone for implementing FAIR data principles and fostering energy research.