Complementors’ interactions in the wind energy ecosystem: coopetitive dynamics

Abstract

ABSTRACT Complementors play a crucial role in innovation ecosystems by contributing to the co-creation of the value proposition and its benefit enhancement. However, research on these actors and their interactions remains limited. Investigating eight Danish wind energy complementors, this embedded case study explores the complexity of their interactions through a mixed-method approach. Initial quantitative analysis is performed using topic modelling to inform the coding of the following qualitative analysis that maps the trends and evolution of complementors’ interactions. The findings reveal that, despite an apparent unawareness or conscious dismissal of the competitive dynamic involved, most wind energy complementors engage in coopetitive interactions at some point, particularly with the focal firms. The study advances our understanding of complementors, emphasising their importance and complexity as ecosystem actors.