Pathways for sustainability transitions in the electricity sector: Multi-level analysis and empirical illustration

Abstract

This paper analyses sustainability transitions in the electricity sector. Using a Multi Level Perspective on transitions, three transition pathways are briefly elaborated and indications for the consequences for the infrastructure are given. The transformation pathway is characterised by a further hybridisation of the infrastructure; in the reconfiguration pathway, internationalisation and scale increase in renewable generation can lead to the emergence of a Supergrid. The de-alignment and re-alignment pathway is dominated by distributed generation and a focus on more local infrastructures. This pathway involves a major restrcuturing of the electricity system, but our conclusion is that this pathway is less likely than the other two. The de-alignment and re-alignment pathway is therefore more dependent on external developments and/or strong policy interventions. However, in all pathways major investments in infrastructure and innovative technologies are needed.