Kivimaa, Paula and Martiskainen, Mari (2018) Dynamics of policy change and intermediation: the arduous transition towards low-energy homes in the United Kingdom. Energy Research & Social Science, 44. pp. 83-99. ISSN 2214-6296
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Abstract
The transition towards low-energy buildings in the United Kingdom is challenging. Several policy changes have affected the actions and agency of actors. Drawing on the sustainability transitions literature, we analyse the development of the low-energy homes niche, focusing on the dynamics between intermediary organisations and policy development for low-energy homes. Based on rich interview and secondary data, we note how the existence and activities of transition intermediaries are enabled or curtailed by policy changes. We identify niche development phases along with the position and activities of intermediary organisations. In the predevelopment phase, non-state transition intermediaries have formed when government policy has been weak or market-based. During take-off, targeted policy initiatives have created protective spaces and stimulated the emergence of new intermediaries aiming to consolidate the niche. State-affiliated intermediaries have been established as part of active energy efficiency policy, but later ceased to exist or became privatised. Existing organisations have adopted intermediary functions to advance low-energy homes in response to policy. Furthermore, intermediaries have on occasion influenced policy development, often through cooperation among an ecology of intermediaries. In conclusion, we raise questions regarding intermediaries in the changing governance context.
Item Type: | Article |
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Keywords: | Niche development; Intermediaries; Energy efficiency policy; Buildings |
Schools and Departments: | University of Sussex Business School > SPRU - Science Policy Research Unit |
Research Centres and Groups: | The Sussex Energy Group |
Subjects: | H Social Sciences |
Related URLs: | |
Depositing User: | Mari Martiskainen |
Date Deposited: | 03 May 2018 10:06 |
Last Modified: | 02 Jul 2019 15:49 |
URI: | http://sro.sussex.ac.uk/id/eprint/75590 |
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📧 Request an updateProject Name | Sussex Project Number | Funder | Funder Ref |
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Research Centre on Innovation and Energy Demand | G1020 | RCUK-RESEARCH COUNCILS UK | EP/K011790/1 |