Simon Hinterholzer is a renewable energy engineer and has been working as a researcher at Borderstep Institute since May 2017. He investigates both the positive and negative sustainability impacts of digitalization as part of research projects and commissioned studies. Among other distinctions, he received the “Best Paper Award” at the scientific conference ICT4S 2026 for his research.

One focus of his work is on the sustainability assessment of data centers and cloud computing. Similarly, he is researching ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in buildings through digital technologies, including using time-dynamic energy accounting. In these areas, he has conducted various research projects at Borderstep for federal ministries and the federal state of Hessen, and has also prepared various studies for national digital associations and the European Commission.

Simon Hinterholzer completed his Master’s degree in Renewable Energies at the Berlin University of Applied Sciences with an overall grade of “with excellence”. His practical experience from his training as an electronics technician for energy and building technology benefited him both for his studies and for his practice-oriented bachelor’s and master’s theses. During this time, he installed numerous photovoltaic systems and combined heat and power plants.

In his free time, the native of Upper Bavaria is often drawn back to the mountains. In addition to the Chiemgau Alps, he has conquered the Pamir Mountains, the Himalayas and Mount Kilimanjaro.He uses the lowlands, on the other hand, to regularly play Ultimate Frisbee with his team.