How Do Governments’ Policy Priorities Change as the Energy Transition Progresses? A Cross-Country Comparison

Abstract

Today’s energy transition is marked by two key processes: the maturation of the renewable electricity system, and the declining fit between the new and incumbent electricity systems. Given these processes, how do governments change their policy priorities as the transition progresses? Our comparative analysis of six EU member states shows that governments dynamically adapt their policy priorities based on changes in their socio-technical systems. Our initial findings suggest that governments follow a specific sequence of policy priorities in the energy transition. Results stress how important it is that governments strategically sequence policy instruments for a smooth transition amid changing priorities.