Technical efficiency in a technological innovation system perspective: The case of bioenergy technologies R&D resources mobilisation in a sample from EU-28

Abstract

Building upon mainstream literature on concept and measures of innovation efficiency, this paper introduces a new method for the evaluation of R&D resources mobilisation in a Tech-nological Innovation System framework. The method is based on a quantitative set up that aims to improving both the representation and assessment of system dynamics. An application to the case of the EU28 bioenergy technological system shows that almost 20% of the R&D potential was under-utilised in 2011. Main determinants of this systemic failure were specific economic and policy factors, which conditioned allocation decisions. In particular, the preference bias induced by the general investment capacity of the system, competitive pressure on entities undertaking innovation activities and the intensity of policy production. Conversely, a relatively higher share of educated population and the evidence of an effective progress towards the achievement of specific policy targets positively impacted on the efficient utilisation of R&D resources.