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Community Energy in Germany – Bowling Alone in Elite Clubs?

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  • Radtke, Jörg
  • Ohlhorst, Dörte

Abstract

Community energy is promised to contribute to a just transition and energy democracy. However, the results of a survey show low levels of diversity, and that it is particularly academics with higher income levels who are participating. Especially women and younger people are less engaged in community energy. It is shown that differences exist between age and gender groups regarding perceptions, attitudes, and activities. This infringes in particular the just transition criterion of intra-generational equity. However, there is substantial potential for engagement in community energy across age, gender, income and education level that could be exploited if the policy framework provided more support and if the concept was better implemented and disseminated.

Suggested Citation

  • Radtke, Jörg & Ohlhorst, Dörte, 2021. "Community Energy in Germany – Bowling Alone in Elite Clubs?," Utilities Policy, Elsevier, vol. 72(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:juipol:v:72:y:2021:i:c:s095717872100103x
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jup.2021.101269
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