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Boundary crossing innovations: Case studies from the energy domain

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  • Raven, R.P.J.M.
  • Verbong, G.P.J.

Abstract

In this paper we investigate, using a multi-level perspective, how innovations can change the relation between multiple socio-technical systems. We analyze two Dutch cases: the use of biomass in the waste and the electricity regime, and CHP in relation to the natural gas and electricity regime to explore boundary crossing dynamics. We conclude that these dynamics radically changed the way the regimes relate from almost no relation to a much more symbiotic and even integrative relation. We also find a pattern where the presence of more than one regime seems to offer extra opportunities during the early phase, but creates barriers further along the innovation path. Additionally, we introduce a typology for investigating and understanding boundary crossing innovations. Policy consequences of border crossing dynamics are still far from developed; connecting disconnected policy arenas might be the most important challenge.

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  • Raven, R.P.J.M. & Verbong, G.P.J., 2009. "Boundary crossing innovations: Case studies from the energy domain," Technology in Society, Elsevier, vol. 31(1), pages 85-93.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:teinso:v:31:y:2009:i:1:p:85-93
    DOI: 10.1016/j.techsoc.2008.10.006
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    8. Kanger, Laur & Sillak, Silver, 2020. "Emergence, consolidation and dominance of meta-regimes: Exploring the historical evolution of mass production (1765–1972) from the Deep Transitions perspective," Technology in Society, Elsevier, vol. 63(C).
    9. W.F. Schilpzand & Rob P. J. M. Raven & Q.C. van Est, 2010. "Strategic Niche Management (SNM) beyond sustainability. An exploration of key findings of SNM through the lens of ICT and privacy," Working Papers 10-07, Eindhoven Center for Innovation Studies, revised Jul 2010.
    10. Schot, Johan & Kanger, Laur, 2018. "Deep transitions: Emergence, acceleration, stabilization and directionality," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 47(6), pages 1045-1059.
    11. Tom Hargreaves & Noel Longhurst & Gill Seyfang, 2013. "Up, Down, round and round: Connecting Regimes and Practices in Innovation for Sustainability," Environment and Planning A, , vol. 45(2), pages 402-420, February.
    12. Johan Schot & Laur Kanger, 2016. "Deep Transitions: Emergence, Acceleration, Stabilization and Directionality," SPRU Working Paper Series 2016-15, SPRU - Science Policy Research Unit, University of Sussex Business School.
    13. Coenen, Lars & Raven, Rob & Verbong, Geert, 2010. "Local niche experimentation in energy transitions: A theoretical and empirical exploration of proximity advantages and disadvantages," Technology in Society, Elsevier, vol. 32(4), pages 295-302.
    14. Chowdhury, Jahedul Islam & Hu, Yukun & Haltas, Ismail & Balta-Ozkan, Nazmiye & Matthew, George Jr. & Varga, Liz, 2018. "Reducing industrial energy demand in the UK: A review of energy efficiency technologies and energy saving potential in selected sectors," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 94(C), pages 1153-1178.
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    16. Lachman, Daniël A., 2013. "A survey and review of approaches to study transitions," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 58(C), pages 269-276.

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