Bridging socio-technical and justice aspects of sustainable energy transitions. (15th October 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sareen, Siddharth; Haarstad, Håvard
• Is Part Of: Applied energy. Volume 228(2018)
• Page Start: 624
• Page End: 632
• Publication Date: 2018-10-15
• Subjects: Energy justice -- Sociotechnical transitions -- Bridging concepts -- Sustainable energy transition -- Multi-scalar solar energy -- Portugal; Power (Mechanics) -- Periodicals; Energy conservation -- Periodicals; Energy conversion -- Periodicals; 621.042
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apenergy.2018.06.104
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-2619

Abstract

Highlights: Bridges sociotechnical dynamics and justice aspects of sustainable energy transitions. Synthesises parallel scholarship including multiple spatialities and normative issues. Proposes bridging elements (institutional, relational and material change) for study. Illustrates approach through case studies of multi-scalar solar uptake in Portugal. Abstract: Sustainable energy transitions necessarily comprise both socio-technical aspects as well as important implications for social justice. However, in existing scholarship, these are mainly treated as distinct phenomena. The purpose of this paper is to outline a comprehensive approach that pulls together critical aspects of both socio-technical development and energy justice in understanding sustainable transitions. Drawing on the strengths of both sets of literature, we argue that a comprehensive approach requires analyses to account for the co-evolution of institutional change, material change and relational change, with a cross-cutting concern for multiple spatialities and normative implications. We then illustrate this approach through three brief case studies of multi-scalar solar uptake in Portugal, bringing out how justice considerations are intricately involved in the practices and politics of these concrete, broadly representative instances of sustainable energy transitions.