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Governing Infrastructure Networks For A Low Carbon Economy: Co-Evolution Of Technologies And Institutions In Uk Electricity Distribution Networks

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  • R. Bolton
  • T.J. Foxon

Abstract

This paper analyses efforts to promote innovation in the UK energy networks sector. Using a case study approach, we chart the co-evolution between technologies and institutions in electricity distribution networks since the introduction of privatization and market liberalization over twenty years ago. It is observed that as a result of macro level institutional dynamics, innovation has become an increasingly important policy and regulatory goal. However, efforts to promote radical and architectural innovation, such as the transition to a smart grid, face significant barriers at the firm and sector levels. It is argued that changes are required to the formal and informal institutions which govern the sector in order to promote a more coherent relationship between technological and institutional change, leading to a productive innovation system which allows firms to collaborate across the electricity value chain and develop inter-firm/cross sector innovation partnerships.

Suggested Citation

  • R. Bolton & T.J. Foxon, 2011. "Governing Infrastructure Networks For A Low Carbon Economy: Co-Evolution Of Technologies And Institutions In Uk Electricity Distribution Networks," Competition and Regulation in Network Industries, Intersentia, vol. 12(1), pages 2-27, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:sen:journl:v:12:i:1:y:2011:p:2-27
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    Cited by:

    1. Johansson, Petter & Vendel, Martin & Nuur, Cali, 2020. "Integrating distributed energy resources in electricity distribution systems: An explorative study of challenges facing DSOs in Sweden," Utilities Policy, Elsevier, vol. 67(C).
    2. Bolton, Ronan & Foxon, Timothy J., 2015. "Infrastructure transformation as a socio-technical process — Implications for the governance of energy distribution networks in the UK," Technological Forecasting and Social Change, Elsevier, vol. 90(PB), pages 538-550.
    3. Brinker, Laura & Satchwell, Andrew J., 2020. "A comparative review of municipal energy business models in Germany, California, and Great Britain: Institutional context and forms of energy decentralization," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 119(C).
    4. Stephen Hall & Andrew EG Jonas & Simon Shepherd & Zia Wadud, 2019. "The smart grid as commons: Exploring alternatives to infrastructure financialisation," Urban Studies, Urban Studies Journal Limited, vol. 56(7), pages 1386-1403, May.
    5. Foxon, Timothy J., 2011. "A coevolutionary framework for analysing a transition to a sustainable low carbon economy," Ecological Economics, Elsevier, vol. 70(12), pages 2258-2267.
    6. Røpke, Inge, 2012. "The unsustainable directionality of innovation – The example of the broadband transition," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 41(9), pages 1631-1642.
    7. Taylor, Peter G. & Bolton, Ronan & Stone, Dave & Upham, Paul, 2013. "Developing pathways for energy storage in the UK using a coevolutionary framework," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 63(C), pages 230-243.

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