Energy policy for energy sovereignty: Can policy tools enhance energy sovereignty?. (15th July 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Schelly, Chelsea; Bessette, Douglas; Brosemer, Kathleen; Gagnon, Valoree; Arola, Kristin L.; Fiss, Andrew; Pearce, Joshua M.; Halvorsen, Kathleen E.
• Is Part Of: Solar energy. Volume 205(2020)
• Page Start: 109
• Page End: 112
• Publication Date: 2020-07-15
• Subjects: Energy sovereignty -- Energy justice -- Energy policy -- Community engaged scholarship; Solar energy -- Periodicals; Solar engines -- Periodicals; 621.47
• DOI: 10.1016/j.solener.2020.05.056
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0038-092X

Abstract

Highlights: Comment reviews the concept of energy sovereignty. Redefining priorities for energy systems decision making. Current U.S energy policy does not center energy sovereignty. In many cases it may work against it. Abstract: The concept of energy sovereignty redefines the priorities for decision making regarding energy systems while encouraging increased reliance on renewable energy technologies like solar. Energy sovereignty involves centering the inherent right of humans and communities to make decisions about the energy systems they use, including decisions about the sources, scales, and forms of ownership that structure energy access. Current U.S energy policy does not center concerns of energy sovereignty, and in many cases may work against it. Policies to enhance energy sovereignty can accelerate electricity decarbonization while also empowering community scale decision making and offering communities control to reduce the myriad externalities associated with the fossil-fuel energy system.