Smith et al 2023 Inclusive-Innovation-SLES.pdf (14.38 MB)
Inclusive innovation in just transitions: the case of smart local energy systems in the UK
journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-10, 06:29 authored by Adrian SmithAdrian Smith, Gerardo A Torres Contreras, Marie-Claire Brisbois, Max Lacey-Barnacle, Benjamin SovacoolBenjamin SovacoolInclusive innovation addresses the challenges and aspirations of poor and marginalised groups in society. Attention towards these groups is also important for social justice in sustainable transitions. How can research insights from inclusive innovation contribute to just transitions? In this paper, based on original mixed methods data, analysis built around levels of inclusion is applied empirically to the case of smart local energy systems in the UK. Despite innovators acknowledging inclusiveness as significant for their decarbonised, decentralised and digitalised transition goals, inclusion operates currently at low levels owing to the prevalence of a liberal-individualist approach to justice in the electricity regime. Noting efforts (and constraints) in higher-level inclusion in some demonstration projects, we discuss whether and how social-collectivist approaches to justice open up more transformative possibilities. The case illustrates how analysis of relations between justice and inclusion can invite more transformational innovation policies.
History
Publication status
- Published
File Version
- Published version
Journal
Environmental Innovation and Societal TransitionsISSN
2210-4224Publisher
ElsevierExternal DOI
Volume
47Page range
a100719 1-27Department affiliated with
- SPRU - Science Policy Research Unit Publications
Full text available
- Yes
Peer reviewed?
- Yes
Legacy Posted Date
2023-03-15First Open Access (FOA) Date
2023-03-15First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date
2023-03-15Usage metrics
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