The governance of Peruvian energy transitions: Path dependence, alternative ideas and change in national hydropower expansion

Abstract

Drawing from work on governance, this article stresses the role of different contexts for energy transitions and focuses on the particular conditions in expanding energy systems. The definition of expanding energy systems is introduced to avoid short-hand classifications such as developed and developing countries, and instead to differentiate based on the characteristics of the energy system itself. Furthermore, this article explores the implications of energy expansion for change and continuity in energy systems using the example of large-scale hydropower development in the Marañón River, Peru. Based on qualitative social research, this article shows that the analysed expansion of hydropower relies on the consolidated extractivist development model and stands for continuity; however, it also evinces that a diverse opposition of state authorities and civil society is willing to take an active part in decisions on the future energy system causing change. The article concludes that the expansion of energy generation is a window of opportunity for change in energy systems and provides suggestions on how to rethink governance. Finally, the article recommends further advancing the conceptualisation of transitions in expanding energy systems.