By Caspar Birk, AAU Communication and Public Affairs
Translated by, Christian Trant

Aalborg University has been ranked as the highest-placed university in Europe in energy research in the SCImago Institutions Rankings – Energy 2026 ranking. SCImago is a recognized ranking within energy research and is based, among other factors, on research publications, scientific citations, and innovation.

Since the Energy ranking was launched in 2021, AAU has continuously improved its global position — from No. 46 in the first year to No. 26 this year. This places the university ahead of Technical University of Denmark and immediately behind the world-renowned Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

“We are honored that AAU is ranked number one in Europe in energy research. This is the result of dedicated researchers and strong research environments. We will continue to create an inspiring environment where researchers can thrive,” says Lars Storm Pedersen, Head of Institute at AAU Energy.

He is supported by his colleague Anne Merrild, who is Head of the Department of Sustainability and Planning, where energy research is also thriving at Aalborg University.

“Research within the field of energy is particularly strong at AAU. This is because we are not only among the leaders in the development and implementation of new technologies, but also have a strong research effort within the energy systems that form the foundation for holistic and sustainable energy planning,” says Anne Merrild.

A clear signal

For Aalborg University, the top ranking is more than just a positive ranking news story. It fits directly into the university’s new strategy, “Knowledge for the World” (“Viden for Verden”), in which AAU aims, among other things, to further strengthen its world-leading position within engineering education.

The strategy also emphasizes that the university must develop solutions to society’s major challenges through groundbreaking research, innovation, and strong collaboration with the outside world.

“This makes the new position particularly significant, because energy research today is closely linked to some of the world’s biggest global challenges: the green transition, energy security, electrification, and the development of sustainable technologies. That AAU now tops in Europe therefore also sends a clear signal that the university is not only educating the engineers of the future — but is also helping to create the knowledge and solutions that the future demands,” says Jesper Wengel, Pro-Rector for Research at AAU.