Local intermediaries in energy transitions: bridging the gap from niche level to changing the regime

Abstract

The energy transition represents a complex and longterm process taking place at different governance levels and representing a set of policies and structural changes. The local level, especially cities and regions, can be considered as a central level for the implementation of energy transitions. These transitions are only in part technical ones, but essentially embedded in, based on, and consisting of changes in social practices and in the organization of societal problem-solving transforming infrastructure governance. This paper demonstrates one central form of organizational change in local energy transition strategies: The creation of local intermediaries, defined by their function and position in between other actors. Based on a case study in Frankfurt/Main, Germany, and referring to the multi-level perspective on socio-technical transitions and the concept of social innovation, it analyses how systemic intermediaries can e.g. bridge the gap from niche to changing the regime.