Using Community Values and Governance Preferences to Facilitate Transitions Toward Sustainable Energies

Abstract

This study explores the use of community values and governance preferences by citizens for the diffusion of sustainable energy technologies. Three Texas communities are investigated to identify community values and governance preferences with regard to energy use. The results show that five underlying values influence the perception of energy use in communities: growth, independence, sustainability, affordable living, and mobility. Regarding preferences for governance, three forms of involvement in community processes were identified: information, communication, and participation in decision-making. The results indicate that values can be used to align expectations towards sustainable energies and shape related narratives. To make the often ‘invisible’ energy technologies tangible as well as experienceable and discussable for the citizens, demonstrator projects (such as energy-innovation hubs) should be considered as tools to anchor sustainable energies in a community.