Energy systems play a critical role in society, but they are not always accessible nor do their benefits reach everyone equitably. Additionally, the negative consequences of these systems, such as climate change, are unfairly distributed. Natascha van Bommel, a researcher at TU/e, has delved into the potential of current energy transitions to address these injustices. With a keen interest in climate change, van Bommel embarked on a Ph.D. study to examine the fairness of energy transitions.
Although climate change affects everyone, its consequences are more pronounced for some, while the advantages of energy systems remain inaccessible to many. Energy poverty, for instance, prevents individuals from affording basic utilities like heating during winter. Furthermore, not all populations have access to electricity, hindering their socio-economic development.
Van Bommel’s research, part of the European MUSE GRIDS project, focuses on one key question: How can we ensure that the transition from fossil fuels to decentralized energy generation is as fair as possible?
Her dissertation is divided into three sections. The first involves a theoretical exploration of the fairness, or unfairness, of energy transitions. The second centers around a study of various energy communities in Europe—citizen cooperatives that produce clean energy. Finally, empirical research examines improving access to energy systems in the Sundarbans region of India.
Originally, van Bommel intended to conduct extensive field research within these communities. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, her approach had to shift to a more theoretical one, which she considers unfortunate.
“I really like talking to people on site and see what’s happening with my own eyes,” she shared. In one instance, she witnessed the enthusiasm of residents in Spain who were setting up an energy community. “They excitedly showed me on their phones how many kilowatt-hours they were generating. Everyone there was super proud of what they had accomplished.”
In the theoretical aspect of her study, van Bommel explores the tension between the urgency of climate action and the fairness of energy transitions. She highlights the clash between the desire for a rapid transition and the need to consider its social impact. However, she points out that a fast energy transition does not necessarily exacerbate inequality. In fact, if the transition is not implemented swiftly enough, it can lead to greater social inequality in the long run.
According to van Bommel, energy communities are often hailed as entities that facilitate fair energy transitions. However, her research reveals that this is not always the case. She notes that not everyone in Europe has access to energy communities, and conflicts between these communities and regulations create hurdles. Moreover, establishing an energy community is not without risks. Granting communities the responsibility for decentralized energy usage may be challenging for individuals lacking technical or legal knowledge and investment opportunities. Thus, robust policy frameworks are crucial to prevent the emergence of further injustices.
Van Bommel suggests adopting a holistic approach rather than managing communities solely at the local level. It is essential to consider the interaction between energy communities and the stakeholders they rely on, including local governments and tech companies, as well as the broader impacts on the energy system.
By addressing the fairness of energy transitions, van Bommel’s research offers valuable insights and underscores the need for inclusive and well-regulated policies to ensure that the benefits of energy systems are shared equitably.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it