Systemic perspectives on energy innovation

Christian Binz

Chapter 4 in Handbook of Energy Innovation, 2026, pp 52-69 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: This chapter reviews and critically examines the evolution of systemic conceptual perspectives on energy innovation. It argues that energy innovation is by definition a systemic innovation problem, which cannot be adequately depicted with linear or chain-linked innovation models. It rather depends on complex and interrelated changes in technologies, actor networks and institutional arrangements, which can best be conceptualized through a socio-technical perspective. The chapter traces the evolution of systemic perspectives on energy innovation, from early writings on ‘large technical systems’ to ‘(technological) innovation systems’ and finally ‘socio-technical transitions’. A comparative review shows that systemic lenses on energy innovation have continuously expanded their analytical focus, progressing from basic research and development in single energy technologies to innovation systems developing radically novel energy technologies and, ultimately, full system transformation in the energy sector as a whole. This shift aligns with an increasing maturation and global diffusion of alternative energy technologies, like solar photovoltaics, wind power, batteries and fuel cells. The chapter shows that thanks to an impressive body of empirical case studies, energy innovation is among the best-understood systemic innovation problems. Yet, key challenges in further refining systemic perspectives exist. In particular, the surge in conceptual complexity arising from current multi-system, multi-scalar and multi-sectoral energy innovation dynamics will require the development of a new generation of conceptual frameworks and methodological approaches, not least to maintain the policy relevance of systemic perspectives on energy innovation.

Keywords: Energy Innovation; Systemic Innovation; Review; Innovation System; Socio-technical Transition (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781035310401
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