Optimising the Framework for Innovation in the Electricity System: Lessons from Five Case Studies in Germany

Abstract

This paper examines success factors for five emerging innovations in the electricity system under the influence of current environmental and economic paradigms such as climate policy and market liberalisation. It widens the conventional focus on technological innovations to encompass organisational and behavioural innovations. The investigation builds on five empirical studies of recent developments in Germany: 1. micro cogeneration of heat and power, 2. carbon dioxide capture and storage (CCS), 3. informative electricity bills, 4. network regulation, and 5. emissions trading. The paper applies a quasi-evolutionary model to understand the relevant selection pressures - i.e., pressures for change - and transition contexts. The findings underline the importance of resource distribution and actor networks within a socio-technological context. The results support the expectation that such a large technological system will display strong inertia in the face of pressures for change. Lock-in effects may be avoided by regular risk and uncertainty assessments conducted under an interdisciplinary and transparent procedure.