This research investigates how to improve collaboration between multinational enterprises (MNEs) and local public clients in transmission and distribution (TD) projects, which are essential for enabling Europe’s energy transition. Currently, there is growing pressure on transmission and distribution infrastructure to support the energy transition process. Even though the importance of this collaboration is stated, there is a lack of research on this type of collaboration and in this particular construction sector. Therefore, the main research question is formed: ”How can collaboration between divisions within the same multinational enterprise and local public clients in the transmission and distribution projects be improved to accelerate energy transition?”

To answer the main research question, three subsequent questions are developed to explore the characteristics of this collaboration, the key challenges, and the best practices. This research utilized literature review, semi-structured interviews to gather data, ensuring both theoretical depth and practical relevance, and a focus group to validate the findings. The literature review was conducted in order to define the characteristics of this collaboration, discover the challenges, and best practices.

The research identified 36 collaboration challenges in total by combining insights from literature and interviews with nine main categories. Of these 36, 25 challenges across eight categories were derived from the literature, while 11 new challenges and one additional category emerged through empirical study. However, only 27 were found to be relevant in TD context. Using a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) analysis, five key challenges were identified: conflicting working culture, expectation misalignment, language barriers, communication style, and different software/programs. The best practices to address these challenges were found through literature review and interviews, then refined into a tailored framework of actionable recommendations.

The framework is designed to be directly applicable and testable in real-world setting, since it provides concrete recommendations and clear explanations to address challenges arising between MNEs and public clients in TD projects. The aim of this framework is not only to enhance the collaboration, but also to encourage stakeholders to collaborate in future projects and strengthen their relationship. With more effective collaboration, TD infrastructure can be developed efficiently, which in turn has a direct impact on the energy transition by enabling transportation renewable energy to end users and accelerating the energy transition.

The construction industry is one of the largest consumers of natural resources, contributing significantly to global CO₂ emissions and waste generation. To address these environmental and economic challenges, the integration of circular economy principles into real estate development is essential. This thesis investigates how circular principles can be effectively incorporated into project selection processes, particularly in the transformation of existing buildings. The research aims to bridge the gap between circularity and standardized project evaluation methods to enhance sustainability while maintaining economic feasibility.

The study is guided by the central research question: "How can circular principles be integrated into project selection criteria in real estate development?" To address this, three sub-questions explore the principles of circularity, the criteria for project selection, and the development of a structured framework for implementation.

A mixed-method approach was employed, including an extensive literature review, semi-structured expert interviews, and a focus group workshop. The literature review provided insights into existing circular economy frameworks, project selection methodologies, and key drivers and barriers to circularity. Empirical research involved interviews with nine industry experts and a validation workshop with seven professionals, enabling a comprehensive analysis of practical challenges and enablers for circular transformation projects.

Findings highlight that economic feasibility remains a major barrier to circular transformations, with high upfront costs and regulatory constraints limiting adoption. However, tools such as Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), material passports, and digital tracking systems enhance transparency and facilitate informed decision-making. The study also emphasizes the importance of early integration of circularity in project selection, the role of expert knowledge and interdisciplinary collaboration, and the need for corporate cultural shifts to ensure long-term circular adoption.

Based on these insights, this research develops a structured roadmap to systematically embed circular principles into project selection processes. The roadmap aligns circular strategies with key decision-making stages, offering practical recommendations for real estate developers, policymakers, and investors. By balancing economic, environmental, and social objectives, this study contributes to advancing sustainable real estate practices and promoting a shift towards a circular built environment.