Making energy cultures visible with situational analysis

Abstract

This article introduces situational analysis a recently developed method in qualitative empirical research, which enables researchers to investigate complexity, multiplicity and mess in the social study of energy. Complexity is understood in its relation to processes of simplification, that occur in the research field, but are also produced by the scientists. The decision in favour of a specific method is understood as a political decision, which influences our capacity not only to examine dominant perspectives and processes, but also to explore invisible and silenced elements, actors and positions in energy cultures. The critical question under investigation is how transformation processes of the way we produce, use and distribute energy can be initiated that entail political as well as scientific practices and processes in which diversity, complexity and modes of reflection are inscribed? Based on the example of energy research governance in the European Union, the article explores how situational analysis with its distinct mapping tools supports the researcher to debate and reflect on simplifications, complexity and power relations, while simultaneously critically asses the problems and challenges of the method.