Scalability of Low Carbon Energy Communities in Spain: An Empiric Approach from the Renewed Commons Paradigm

Abstract

Through the implementation of low carbon-based energy systems and participatory modes of governance, there are countless collective initiatives progressing towards a sustainable and resilient energy model. Local alternatives necessarily have to be able to scale in order to address global challenges. From the renewed paradigm of the commons, this empirical research provides a precise picture of the present scalability of these (self) transformative initiatives in Spain. Based on the identification and qualitative analysis of 18 of them via semi-structured in-depth interviews, the article explores their upper and lower limits; the importance of power distribution and citizen participation; the relational dimension of the scale; the upscaling forms and the role of public institutions. On the basis of the results obtained, the article finally presents recommendations aimed at strengthening this scalability of the energy commons.

Towards a Just Energy Transition, Barriers and Opportunities for Positive Energy District Creation in Spain

“…In Spain, two main barriers have already been identified: the high costs of a distributed system [1], and the current energy auction system which might discriminate smaller citizens initiatives in favor of larger operators [13]. In the area of Social capital, barriers include issues of unequal participation [63] and engrained patterns of energy consumption behaviors which may be difficult to change [64]. Research has also identified gender issues with women voices being underrepresented within LEC initiatives [49].…”

“…From an environmental perspective (natural capital), there is general consensus on the high potential for significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions in Spain and the EU [1,46,67]. Technological opportunities (physical capital) include a potential improvement in the efficiency of the energy system through local power generation as this will not need to be transported long distances [1], and a more resilient and adaptable energy system overall [26,63].…”

“…Social advantages and opportunities (social capital) that have been researched include the transformative potential of LECs [13], including increased social justice [47], reciprocity and added co-activities [26,63]. Furthermore, there has been some research on the potential benefits of similar energy initiatives in rural areas of Spain [68].…”

“…Financial opportunities (financial capital) include reducing national energy imports [70], improved competitiveness within the national energy market [12], which could be key to democratizing a new decentralized energy system [13], high rates of job creation, and benefits being shared between an increased number and range of actors [1]. Political and legislative opportunities (human capital) are seen as arising directly from European Directives [63] which means that the Spanish government is likely to encourage new forms of shared energy ownership [68].…”

A Characterization of European Collective Action Initiatives and Their Role as Enablers of Citizens’ Participation in the Energy Transition

“…Academic literature has also shown interest in how community energy interacts with energy justice, redistribution of costs, and the benefits of the transition, particularly for lowincome households (see, for example, [15][16][17][18]). Similarly, the creation, scalability, and initial conditions for community energy initiatives have been researched in specific countries or theoretical approaches [19][20][21]. An overarching finding is that community energy is heterogeneous, both in its structures and objectives [22].…”