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Temporality consumption and conflict exploring user based injustices in European low carbon transitions.pdf (1.33 MB)

Temporality, consumption, and conflict: exploring user-based injustices in European low-carbon transitions

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Version 2 2023-06-12, 09:33
Version 1 2023-06-09, 21:56
journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-12, 09:33 authored by Mari MartiskainenMari Martiskainen, Benjamin SovacoolBenjamin Sovacool, Andrew HookAndrew Hook
The urgency of climate change means that low-carbon transitions are needed in large socio-technical systems such as energy and transportation. These transitions must be rapid, but also fair. An emerging body of evidence suggests that users have important roles in transitions, yet much previous research has examined user involvement while assuming it to be largely a positive force. This goes against a growing amount of evidence within sociotechnical studies that highlight the potentially obstructive or negative role that users may play in transitions and innovation. In this study, we pose a critical question: In what ways may users perpetuate injustices within a transition? To answer this question, we provide conceptual background on energy justice and user adoption of low-carbon energy and mobility technologies. We then analyse users and energy injustices in three low-carbon transitions – solar energy in Germany, electric vehicles in Norway, and smart meters in Great Britain – based on empirical data from interviews, focus groups, and internet forums. Our main contribution is to show how users in low-carbon transitions are not always positively engaged, or even neutral, but can introduce and contribute to inequality and exclusion.

History

Publication status

  • Published

File Version

  • Published version

Journal

Technology Analysis & Strategic Management

ISSN

0953-7325

Publisher

Taylor & Francis

Page range

1-13

Department affiliated with

  • SPRU - Science Policy Research Unit Publications

Full text available

  • No

Peer reviewed?

  • Yes

Legacy Posted Date

2020-10-21

First Open Access (FOA) Date

2020-11-12

First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date

2020-10-21

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