Energy is one of the main foundations of our society. We take for granted that it should be clean, affordable and available at all times. We use it for heating and lighting, for mobility or communications.

Aspects of energy technology are treated in many other sections of the Deutsches Museum. The reason for this multiplicity is that the development of mankind is closely linked to the history of the use of energy. One of the most important steps was mastering fire. Heat was then available for cooking and keeping warm. Firelight extended the useful length of day and warded off wild animals.

In a kiln or furnace one could fire ceramics or smelt bronze and iron. In the 17th century, these uses were joined by heat engines; they have been used since then to cover a major part of our energy needs.