Transitions in Energy Systems: The Mitigation-Adaptation Relationship

• Published in: Science as culture Vol. 22; no. 2; pp. 197 - 203
• Main Author: Hess, David J.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Routledge 01.06.2013
• Subjects: adaptation; Adaptation to change; Climate Change; Comparative Analysis; Electricity; Energy; Energy transition; Knowledge; mitigation; Resilience; Science and technology; Sociology of science; Sustainability; Technology; technology transitions; Transportation; Twenty First Century; Values
• DOI: 10.1080/09505431.2013.786987
• ISSN: 0950-5431

The study of large technological systems from a social science perspective assumes that it is possible to build up a systematic knowledge of the transitions of those systems through comparative analysis. Although the assumption is fundamental to an science and technology studies (STS) perspective on energy transitions, there are also historical differences that are especially relevant for the case of the technological transition to low-carbon energy systems in the twenty-first century. Previous energy transitions, such as from horse-powered to machine-powered transportation or from gaslight systems to electric lighting, can provide valuable insights, but the limitations of such comparisons should also be recognized. This essay will discuss the value of an STS perspective rooted in the sociology of technology design, and it will focus on one significant difference between the current energy transition and those of previous eras: the intertwining of an energy transition based on sustainability and climate-change mitigation with one based on resilience and climate adaptation. Reprinted by permission of Carfax Publishing, Taylor & Francis Ltd.