Governance and Innovation of Collective Aqua Thermal Energy Systems

  • Hoppe, T. (Speaker)
  • Nthabi Mohlakoana (Contributor)
  • Sara Brogaar (Contributor)
  • Barry Ness (Contributor)
  • Magdalena Wiedermann (Contributor)

Activity: Talk or presentationOral presentation

Description

Within the wider set of renewable energy technologies Aqua thermal Energy (AE) is a long-standing, yet under-utilized, emerging niche. Despite having ample theoretical potential to contribute to transformative change towards sustainability in heating and cooling systems, AE has not lived up to expectations. Nonetheless, recently AE is receiving increasing attention by policy makers and practitioners. AE systems refer to the extraction, storage and distribution of thermal energy from drinking, surface or waste water to cool and heat homes and other buildings. The aim of this research is to present several relevant theoretical frameworks available to analyse governance and innovation of current heating systems and future energy systems adopting AE technology. Relevant theoretical frameworks include: the Multi-Level Perspective, Strategic Niche Management, Contextual Interaction Theory, the Governance of Change, and Community Energy Systems. A reflective-empirical case study research design was adopted to gain understanding into renewable energy transition processes, and more specifically, pathways for how AE systems can play a more significant role in a renewable energy system transition. Data collection involved text documents, expert interviews and a stakeholder workshop. To demonstrate the use of the proposed frameworks, we exemplify an illustrative case study of AE niche innovation in the Fryslân region (The Netherlands). The case provides a unique structuring, revealing both enablers and hindrances, of the institutional and governance dynamics for AE system innovation. In addition, the study shows the added value of using multiple, complementary theoretical perspectives
Period4 Dec 2024
Event title6th ESEIA International Conference 2024: “Net Zero and Beyond”
Event typeConference
Conference number6
LocationKuopio, FinlandShow on map
Degree of RecognitionInternational

Keywords

  • aqua thermal energy
  • renewable energy
  • heat pump
  • governance
  • innovation