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(Un)usual advocacy coalitions in a multi-system setting: the case of hydrogen in Germany

Author

Listed:
  • Meike Löhr

    (University of Oldenburg
    Eawag: Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology)

  • Jochen Markard

    (Zurich University of Applied Sciences
    ETH Zurich)

  • Nils Ohlendorf

    (Mercator Research Institute on Global Commons and Climate Change)

Abstract

Grand sustainability challenges span multiple sectors and fields of policymaking. Novel technologies that respond to these challenges may trigger the emergence of new policy subsystems at the intersection of established sectors. We develop a framework that addresses the complexities of ‘multi-system settings.’ Empirically, we explore belief and coalition formation in the nascent policy subsystem around hydrogen technologies in Germany, which emerges at the intersection of electricity, transport, heating, and industry and is characterised by a broad range of actors from different sectoral backgrounds. We find two coalitions: a rather unusual coalition of actors from industry, NGOs, and research institutes as well as an expectable coalition of gas and heat sector actors. Actors disagree over production, application, and import standards for hydrogen. However, there is widespread support for hydrogen and for a strong role of the state across almost all actors. We explain our findings by combining insights from the advocacy coalition framework and politics of transitions: Belief and coalition formation in a nascent subsystem are influenced by sectoral backgrounds of actors, technology characteristics, as well as trust and former contacts. Our study contributes to a better understanding of early stages of coalition formation in a multi-system setting.

Suggested Citation

  • Meike Löhr & Jochen Markard & Nils Ohlendorf, 2024. "(Un)usual advocacy coalitions in a multi-system setting: the case of hydrogen in Germany," Policy Sciences, Springer;Society of Policy Sciences, vol. 57(3), pages 567-597, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:policy:v:57:y:2024:i:3:d:10.1007_s11077-024-09536-7
    DOI: 10.1007/s11077-024-09536-7
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    References listed on IDEAS

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