| ID | 149876 |
| Title Proper | Transforming the energy system |
| Other Title Information | why municipalities strive for energy self-sufficiency |
| Language | ENG |
| Author | Engelken, Maximilian ; Römer, Benedikt ; Drescher, Marcus ; Welpe, Isabell |
| Summary / Abstract (Note) | Despite evidence that a rising number of municipalities in Germany are striving for energy self-sufficiency, there is little understanding of the driving factors behind this development. We investigate economic, ecological, social and energy system related factors that drive municipalities to strive for energy self-sufficiency with a focus on electricity supply. The empirical data for this study is based on insights generated through expert interviews (N =19) with mayors, energy experts and scientists as well as a quantitative study among mayors and energy officers (N =109) of German municipalities. Results show that environmental awareness, tax revenues and greater independence from private utilities are positively related to the mayors’ attitude towards the realization of energy self-sufficiency. Furthermore, citizens, the political environment, the mayor's political power, and his/her financial resources are relevant factors for a municipality striving for energy self-sufficiency. Policymakers need to decide whether or not to support mayors in this development. For suitable policy interventions, the results suggest the importance of an integrated approach that considers a combination of identified factors. Finally, we propose a morphological box to structure different aspects of energy self-sufficiency and categorize the present study. |
| `In' analytical Note | Energy Policy Vol. 98, No.98; Nov 2016: p.365–377 |
| Journal Source | Energy Policy 2016-11 98, 98 |
| Key Words | Regional Development ; Renewable Energy ; Municipality ; Energy Self-Sufficiency ; Theory of Planned Behavior |