Policy entry points for facilitating a transition towards a low-carbon
electricity future
Abstract
This paper extends the ambit of the debate on electricity transition by,
specifically, identifying possible policy entry points through which
transformative and enduring changes can be made in the electricity and
socio-economic systems to facilitate the transition process. Guided by
the ‘essence’ of the multi-level perspective (MLP) – a prominent
framework for the study of energy transition, four such entry points
have been identified: 1) destabilising the dominant, fossil fuels-based
electricity regime to create room for renewable technologies to break
through; 2) reconfiguring the electricity regime, encompassing
technology, short-term operational practices, and long-term planning
processes, to improve flexibility to accommodate large outputs from
variable renewable sources while maintaining supply security; 3)
addressing the impact of coal power phase-out on coal mining regions in
terms of economic development and jobs; and 4) facilitating a shift in
transition governance towards a learning-based, reflexive process.
Specific areas for policy interventions within each of these entry
points have also been discussed in the paper.