Fostering a local energy transition in a post-socialist policy setting

Abstract

We explore the conditions critical for the enactment of ambitious local energy transition in a post-socialist renewable energy policy environment that constrains local initiatives. We analyse the island of Krk (Croatia) as a unique case of shared vision of 100 % renewable energy in post-socialist countries. We apply Kingdon’s multiple-streams approach to advance the understanding of policy change in transitions literature by examining problem, policy and political streams. We investigate the political and policy landscape, multidimensional roles and interactions of key actors, and the governance mode. The underlying mechanism consists of the island community’s common interest -- tourism, unprecedented political stability, and synchronized policy actions by the local self-governments, where the public utility inspires policy entrepreneurs to pursue new niches and policy proposals. A novel, inclusive and horizontal governance mode focused on island-level steering secures high-level support for new policy initiatives through coordination and a sense of co-creation and co-ownership.