Competition, coordination, or institutional change? A multi-perspective analysis of historical electricity transitions in Mexico

Abstract

The electricity sector is a complex dynamic system that has experienced continuous changes since its beginning. The aim of this article is to explore the evolution of historical electricity transitions in Mexico from 1879 to 2012 under the interactive governance approach. Governability provides an analytical framework for investigating the role of actors, technologies, and policies in national energy transitions. By integrating a multi-perspective analytical framework, we applied concepts from energy transitions and policy mixes for sustainability transitions to qualitatively describe social, economic, and technological changes and their relative role in historical transitions. The case study revealed that governability of national energy transitions may vary considerably from one episode to another depending on how governance systems have handled national societal needs and international cooperation agreements. Additionally, different drivers have been identified in shaping electricity transitions in Mexico. First, governance decisions have depended on specific (policy) paradigms that relevant actors have adopted. Second, the article highlights the key role that available (indigenous) energy resources have played in directing the path and pace of electricity production technologies. Third, increasing environmental and climate change concerns have improved the way electricity is produced and used. The analysis conducted suggests that energy transitions governability may be improved by fostering communication and cooperation among actors and institutions to define policy mixes in line with societal needs.