Social implications of energy infrastructure digitalisation and decarbonisation

Abstract

Digitalisation provides opportunities to decarbonise energy and, simultaneously, address social exclusion and inequality—but it is unclear whether and how these opportunities are realised. Three case studies investigate whether ongoing energy infrastructure digitalisation processes are accommodating commoning or enclosure, using a continuum of commoning versus enclosure practices to examine this question. Multi-sited fieldwork throughout the period 2021–22 is used to compare sectoral transitions in three European mid-sized cities: mobility in Bergen (NO), solar generation in Brighton & Hove (UK) and smart electric meters in Trento (IT). Semi-structured and narrative expert interviews (N = 66), a mix of structured (N = 134) and semi-structured (N = 49) citizen interviews, citizen focus groups (N = 17), seminars (N = 2), participatory workshops (N = 4), and extended participant observation reveal multiple and contradictory processes of commoning and enclosure. Decarbonisation and digitalisation are proceeding unevenly, with tendencies of enclosure and missed opportunities to achieve commoning of energy infrastructure for public benefit. Opportunities are identified to enable commoning pathways in ongoing twin transitions.

Policy relevance

The digitalisation of energy infrastructure is a significant transition because it holds the key to rapid electrification of multiple sectors and thus wider societal decarbonisation. Yet the way it takes place must embody justice and social inclusion in order to advance just transitions while developing new infrastructures. European cities constitute some of the most advanced arenas globally where such changes are simultaneously unfolding and being contested. This comparative multi-methods qualitative study offers insights into the challenges of enclosure—and opportunities for commoning—during transitions in urban transport in Bergen (NO); household solar photovoltaics in Brighton & Hove (UK); and smart meters in Trento (IT). This analysis provides policymakers and practitioners with a novel understanding of the social implications of energy infrastructure digitalisation. This can inform praxis for just transitions that transcend these specific contexts.