Case Studies as an Immersive Approach for Unravelling Energy–Society Relations

The section that unfolds is based upon one of the many critical foundations discussed in this text—study of human affairs vis a vis energy consumption (in terms of access to different nature of supplies and varied end uses). Varying typology of cases has been comprehensively presented along the lines of different subject areas. Different orientations, along with different research traditions, have been incorporated to sequentially produce an ensemble of completeness through illustration of facts, examination of phenomenon, drawl of inference and gradually leading to triangulation, through deduction of hypotheses for each of the cases nested in a different socio-cultural domain. The cases have been extensively chosen for a comprehensive understanding of attributes of—a) variation in energy end use, b) co-variation of end use with access (causality), c) homogeneity and heterogeneity (in terms of access to energy, control over resources, distribution and re-distribution of resources, gains and losses in terms of social capital and other tangible benefits, and supply side versus demand side issues of energy), and d) gainful insights into relationships. A noteworthy feature of these case studies is their being exploratory, explanatory and descriptive. The distinguishing characteristics of the case study approach are hinged upon two contextual realities: (a) a contemporary phenomenon being examined in its existential context, and b) the epistemic boundaries between phenomenon (energy poverty) and context (spaces and cultures of consumption) are blurred as the context—specific foundations are yet to be built. There was an imperative to probe the phenomena with sufficient amount of vertical, penetrative insight for a ‘grounded in’—understanding and conceptualization from a regional context and a mix of alternate perspectives. The case studies present glimpses of purposive sampling, iterative study design and different approaches to a mixed system of analysis—ranging from caste energy nexus (Tayyabpur village, Bihar) to resource assessment potential for a comprehensive demand side management of rural energy demand (Mayabunder, Andaman and Nicobar Islands) through a story of social innovation at Bahadurpur biogas unit (Ropar, Punjab), energy croppers of the solar pump irrigators cooperative (Dhundhi village, Gujarat) and lastly, the story of experiential learning at the hands of a rural energy service company, Mera Gao Power (Lohati Pasai village, Uttar Pradesh). An iterative approach was adopted to analyse field notes and interview transcripts on an ongoing basis for a singular (in situ understanding) as well as plural (cross-case understanding) of the phenomenon of energy poverty. Therefore, multiple cases were chosen in order to experience, explore and explain 1) a phenomenon and 2) different approaches to provide energy access in diverse regional settings as an ensemble of collective and creative engagements within different socio-cultural orders. There is a conscious attempt made to stay away from generalization that is primarily driven by the need for epistemological harmony (Stake, 1978).