Do transitions change political governance in the energy sector? Comparative analysis of policy making in France, Ireland and Germany

Project Description

The literature on the history of energy transitions posits that energy transitions are supposed to bring i) destabilisation of incumbents and redistribution of resources and control of energy production but also ii) have a wider effect on the political level and how governance is organised in societies. This project re-examines these assumptions drawing on existing empirical data collected by the two PIs in France, Ireland and Germany. Through comparative analysis across these country cases the project aims at drawing lessons regarding challenges and successes in energy transition approaches. The project will generate scholarly and policy relevant knowledge regarding how to develop successful governance approaches to facilitate renewable energy transitions. Outcomes of the project include empirical and theoretical peer reviewed academic publications, a policy paper, conference presentations, as well as building the groundwork for sustained French-Irish research collaboration into the future.