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Statistical Evidence on the Role of Energy Cooperatives for the Energy Transition in European Countries

Author

Listed:
  • August Wierling

    (Department of Environmental Sciences, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Postbox 7030, 5020 Bergen, Norway)

  • Valeria Jana Schwanitz

    (Department of Environmental Sciences, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Postbox 7030, 5020 Bergen, Norway)

  • Jan Pedro Zeiß

    (Department of Environmental Sciences, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Postbox 7030, 5020 Bergen, Norway)

  • Celine Bout

    (Department of Management Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Building 426, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark)

  • Chiara Candelise

    (IEFE, Centre for Research on Energy & Environmental Economics & Policy, Bocconi University, Via Roentgen, 1-20136 Milan, Italy)

  • Winston Gilcrease

    (UNESCO Chair, University of Turin, Via Verdi, 8-10124 Turin, Italy)

  • Jay Sterling Gregg

    (Department of Management Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Building 426, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark)

Abstract

The share of renewable energy is increasing throughout Europe. Yet, little is known about how much can be attributed to different actors, other than those commercially active. This paper provides empirical evidence of activities by energy cooperatives in the field of renewable energy in four different European countries. It draws from a database consisting of 2671 entries, contrasting results from current literature. We find that energy cooperatives are important enablers of the energy transition. However, their role is shrinking in recent years due to a tightening or removal of supportive schemes. We conclude that it is necessary to develop a systematic accounting system to properly track and make visible the contributions by different actors. In turn, this will help to better model the likely speed of Europe’s energy transition.

Suggested Citation

  • August Wierling & Valeria Jana Schwanitz & Jan Pedro Zeiß & Celine Bout & Chiara Candelise & Winston Gilcrease & Jay Sterling Gregg, 2018. "Statistical Evidence on the Role of Energy Cooperatives for the Energy Transition in European Countries," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 10(9), pages 1-25, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:10:y:2018:i:9:p:3339-:d:170600
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