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The conceptualisation of civic energy cooperatives as change agents in the German energy transition

In: Spatial transformation: Processes, strategies, research design

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  • Thimm, Insa

Abstract

Civic energy cooperatives play an essential role in shaping the transformation of the German energy system. They contribute significantly to the decentralised expansion of renewable energy and to the acceptance of the energy transition. This paper aims to shed light on the role of civic energy cooperatives as change agents in the energy transition. A civic engagement approach was chosen because in addition to their economic orientation, civic energy cooperatives are known for their social component with a focus on the common good. The paper will demonstrate the civil society potential of civic energy cooperatives, despite their economic activity and profit motives. The paper will also present the concept of change agents from transformation research and demonstrate the value of the concept for situating civic energy cooperatives within the social context of the energy transition.

Suggested Citation

  • Thimm, Insa, 2022. "The conceptualisation of civic energy cooperatives as change agents in the German energy transition," Forschungsberichte der ARL: Aufsätze, in: Spatial transformation: Processes, strategies, research design, volume 19, pages 179-190, ARL – Akademie für Raumentwicklung in der Leibniz-Gemeinschaft.
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:arlfba:251504
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Blanchet, Thomas, 2015. "Struggle over energy transition in Berlin: How do grassroots initiatives affect local energy policy-making?," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 78(C), pages 246-254.
    2. Canzler, Weert, 2017. "Mit angezogener Handbremse: zum Stand der Energiewende," EconStor Open Access Articles and Book Chapters, ZBW - Leibniz Information Centre for Economics, vol. 67(16/17), pages 31-38.
    3. Geels, Frank W., 2002. "Technological transitions as evolutionary reconfiguration processes: a multi-level perspective and a case-study," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 31(8-9), pages 1257-1274, December.
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