Socio-technical dynamics of Energy Transition in Polish Silesia

Abstract

Energy Transition is a shift from a society dependent upon one energy resource and production method to another.It is a complex theme comprising of various sectors, elements, and feedbacks. It also affects a variety of stakeholders. Additionally, it is a priority to tackle the climate and energy crisis. Hence, Energy Transition is a challenging process, as observed in the case of Poland's Upper Silesia region. Since 1989 Upper Silesia has undergone an unintentional energy transition, which had been the beginning of the industry restructuring. From that moment the coal mining industry reduced in size considerably. The number of active coal mines decreased, which reduced employment and annual resource extraction. However, paradoxically with such a significant shrinkage of coal mining, coal-based energy consumption has continued at a similar level until today. Furthermore, the strategies to proceed with transition have not always had a just manner. They have not considered the crucial role of the community. From the socio-technical perspective, it is insufficient to implement solutions that diminish the role of society in the process of Energy Transition as it might lead to the system resisting response. Such a phenomenon of resistance is associated with sustainability transitions within several studies. The following research applies the system dynamics method to explore the socio-technical dynamics of energy transition in Poland and Upper Silesia. Explicitly, if and to what extent the society, through consumption habits, influences the Energy Transition. But also the significant role of the just transition for coal mining communities and miners, with its impact on the system. The research begins with developing a stock and flow diagram consisting of four explicit sectors: Coal Mines, Energy demand and diffusion, Alternative Energy, and Employment. This part explored the system's physical structure, including identifying the single elements and feedback mechanisms that cause resistance to adopting RE and transferring the coal workforce into the new one. Quantifying a designed model was followed by the simulation-based scenario analysis. Such a comprehending system’s study revealed that inadequate decisions about energy production hinder the shift from coal-based to renewable-based energy production. It proved that society's awareness can significantly influence the adoption of green technologies. Moreover, it highlighted the importance of just transition and policy consistency to yield positive outcomes from implemented solutions. The future research recommendations aim to extend this research by considering the role of financial aspects or further confirm the relevance of the findings and model validity by conducting Group Model Building.