Developing transition pathways for a low carbon electricity system in the UK

Timothy J Foxon, Geoffrey Hammond, Peter J Pearson

Research output: Chapter or section in a book/report/conference proceedingBook chapter

1 Citation (SciVal)

Abstract

This paper describes the approach to developing transition pathways for a low carbon electricity system in the UK, being pursued in a major new research project. The project aims (a) to learn from past transitions to help explore future transitions and what might enable or avoid them; (b) to design and evaluate transition pathways towards alternative socio-technical energy systems and infrastructures for a low carbon future; and (c) to understand and where appropriate model the changing roles, influences and opportunities of large and small 'actors' in the dynamics of transitions. The paper describes the approach being taken, which builds on the work of Dutch researchers on transitions and transition management using a multi-level framework of niches, socio-technical regime and landscape. It also outlines its application to the case of transition pathways to a regime dominated by local distributed electricity generation, including the evolution of the physical and institutional infrastructure changes, and the roles of actors, both large, e.g. multinational energy supply and distribution companies, national governments, major investors, and small, e.g. households, innovators and entrepreneurs.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication2008 First International Conference on Infrastructure Systems and Services
Subtitle of host publicationBuilding Networks for a Brighter Future, (INFRA)
PublisherIEEE
ISBN (Print)9781424468874
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Nov 2008
Event2008 First International Conference on Infrastructure Systems and Services: Building Networks for a Brighter Future (INFRA) - Rotterdam, Netherlands
Duration: 10 Nov 200812 Nov 2008

Conference

Conference2008 First International Conference on Infrastructure Systems and Services: Building Networks for a Brighter Future (INFRA)
Country/TerritoryNetherlands
CityRotterdam
Period10/11/0812/11/08

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