We are excited to announce that our latest video, "What roles for citizens in Europe's energy transition?" is out now! EnergyPROSPECTS
The European energy transition to a carbon neutral economy by 2050 offers a unique opportunity not only to substitute fossil energy with renewables but to transform our energy systems for a more socially fair and democratic European Union. Citizen inclusion in decision making is a key element of a just transition, but the redesign of our energy systems and governance structures needs to go beyond the dominant narrative, which focuses on people and places whose livelihoods are highly dependent on carbon-intensive activities.1 The energy price crisis has brought to the surface wider inequalities that characterise the prevailing energy system.2 As the transition speeds up in response to the crisis3, decision makers at all levels must make sure that current inequalities are not entrenched or aggravated by short and long term policy choices. EU responses to the climate crisis and the social crisis must go hand in hand. A key aspect in this endeavour is what roles citizens (should) play.
To better grasp the diversity of energy citizenship, the concept has been expanded beyond the familiar examples of active consumers, prosumers, and renewable energy communities. To support the realistic vision of energy citizenship, ten ideal-types of energy citizenship have been developed to grasp the breadth of the possible forms that exist. The ten types can provide a structuring framework for policy makers to discuss how different types could be further supported.
Watch the video HERE
