Deliberative Socio-Technical Transitions

Abstract

Part I of Energy for the Future developed a critique of the way energy policymaking is conducted, drawing attention to issues such as problem framing, institutional inertia, civil legitimacy, technological ‘lock-in’ and over-reliance on competition as a mechanism to achieve energy policy goals. Part II focuses on ways to tackle the challenges so that societies become better able to transform energy supply and use, making development more sustainable. This chapter sets the scene for the more detailed recommendations that follow, identifying broad approaches, principles and processes appropriate to the new energy policy agenda. It argues in favour of a new overarching perspective on the relevant transitions, and draws out the implications for governments, expert advisors and other stakeholders.