AI and Sustainability: Investigating the role of artificial intelligence in energy management and carbon reduction strategies within German industries

This thesis investigates the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in advancing energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions across major German industries, including automotive, energy, technology, and logistics. In the context of Germany’s climate policy goals, AI is analyzed as a strategic enabler of sustainable industrial transformation. The research applies a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative case studies with quantitative analysis of secondary data, to assess how AI technologies are being implemented in real-world industrial settings. The findings highlight both opportunities and challenges: while AI shows strong potential to support sustainability through innovation and efficiency gains, barriers such as regulation, cost, and accessibility remain, particularly for medium and large enterprises. The study contributes to academic and practical discussions by extending technology adoption frameworks and offering recommendations for a more equitable integration of AI in Germany’s transition toward a low-carbon economy.