The emerging field of energy transitions: Progress, challenges, and opportunities

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Abstract

Energy transitions are an unmistakable part of today's public discourse. Whether shaped by fuel price fluctuation, environmental and security concerns, aspects of technology change, or goals to improve energy access, attention regularly turns to ways in which to improve energy pathways. Yet what is understood about energy system change is still emerging. This article explores the evolving field of energy transitions with an aim to connect and enlarge the scholarship. Definitions and examples of energy transitions are discussed, together with core ideas on trade-offs, urgency, and innovation. Global developments in energy and related mega-trends are then reviewed to highlight areas of analytical significance. Key information sources and suppliers are examined next. The article concludes with ideas about opportunities for further research.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)112-121
Number of pages10
JournalEnergy Research and Social Science
Volume1
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 2014

Keywords

  • Energy system change
  • Energy transition
  • Globalization
  • Learning
  • Multi-level perspective
  • Path creation
  • Path dependence
  • Policy and governance
  • Population
  • Techno-economic paradigm
  • Urbanization

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