Speaker
Description
The shift from fossil fuels presents both challenges and opportunities for societies seeking to implement renewable energy transitions that are both environmentally effective and socially inclusive. While technological advancement has shown progress, citizen engagement is increasingly recognized as a critical component of a just and democratic energy transition. This study compares three case studies—Israel, Germany, and the Netherlands—to explore how different governance frameworks and policy environments shape citizen participation and social innovation in energy systems.
The theoretical foundation of this research builds on the concept of social innovation (SI), which plays a crucial role in promoting people–centred solutions to addressing energy and climate challenges. SI plays a crucial role in enabling new models of public engagement that extend beyond traditional energy cooperatives. These include local solar initiatives, community-run microgrids, and collaborative policymaking. These models integrate environmental sustainability with social cohesion.
The research also employs the concept of energy citizenship and participatory governance, which emphasise the active role of citizens in shaping democratic and sustainable energy systems. As citizens shift from passive consumers to active contributors, they are shaping the structure and governance of the energy system.
The research uses a mixed-method approach based on a comparative case study combined with a survey methodology. The methodology indludes (1) a structured survey of Israeli citizens involved or interested in community-based energy initiatives, examining their motivations, perceived barriers, and levels of institutional trust, (2) a planned comparative survey in Germany and the Netherlands, (3) secondary analysis of policy documents, case studies, and academic literature across all three countries. Case selection was based on the diversity of governance models and levels of public participation in the energy transition. The analysis focuses on modes of participation, policy frameworks, and the relationship between citizen engagement and community empowerment.
In Israel, while entirely community-owned renewable energy projects are still rare, there are emerging collaborations between local authorities, NGOs, and residents to promote small-scale solar initiatives. These efforts, often facilitated by municipal programs or environmental organisations, aim to increase public engagement with renewable energy. Although ownership structures remain largely centralised, such initiatives provide opportunities for residents to participate in energy generation, raise awareness, and contribute to broader sustainability goals. Regulatory and institutional barriers still limit the development of bottom-up energy models.
A strong emphasis on citizen participation has characterised Germany’s Energiewende (energy transition). Through energy cooperatives, individuals can collectively invest in and manage renewable energy assets, such as wind and solar farms. This decentralised model shifts energy production away from the centralised model toward local ownership. This shift empowers communities and broadens access to energy decision-making, supporting socially innovative practices rather than top-down solutions. In addition to accelerating the adoption of renewable energy, it strengthens social cohesion by creating shared economic and environmental interests at the community level. Participation in such initiatives fosters a sense of ownership and accountability, encouraging citizens to take an active role in shaping the energy systems they depend on. Significantly, this model also improves social inclusion by allowing participation from diverse groups—particularly those in rural or low-income areas—ensuring that the benefits of the energy transition are more equitably distributed.
In the Netherlands, public participation in the energy transition is supported by a strong culture of collaboration and community engagement. Citizens have played a leading role in establishing local energy cooperatives and managing community-driven renewable energy projects. These cooperatives often focus on wind, solar, and biomass technologies, allowing residents to work together to reduce their carbon footprint and share the benefits of sustainable energy production. Local governments support these initiatives by providing the necessary frameworks and infrastructure. This participatory approach not only advances environmental sustainability but also fosters a sense of community and shared purpose, as citizens unite around typical climate and energy goals.
Together, these case studies demonstrate that public participation is a crucial component in developing more sustainable, secure, and inclusive energy systems. Social innovation allows citizens to engage in energy transition actively, supporting the idea that sustainability includes both environmental responsibility and social inclusion. However, significant challenges persist, particularly in ensuring that marginalised and underserved groups are not excluded. As energy systems continue to evolve, prioritising inclusivity will be crucial to ensure that all individuals and communities can meaningfully participate in—and benefit from—the transition.
This research illustrates that public participation, supported by social innovation, plays a significant role in the energy transition. By comparing Israel, Germany, and the Netherlands, it becomes clear that inclusive and sustainable energy systems depend on participatory structures, strong local governance, and supportive policy frameworks. Recognising citizens as agents of change is essential for building energy futures that are not only low-carbon but also equitable, democratic, and resilient.
Keywords: Social Innovation, Participatory Governance, People-Centred Energy Transition, Energy Citizenship, Comparative Analysis
