Low Carbon Energy Transitions

This book provides a fascinating and detailed account of the energy transition experience of four countries. By looking at the technical and social, economic and political factors involved, it teaches us about the complexity of any major change. A valuable lesson in these times of major shifts and redesigns in technology, energy, lifestyles and institutions. * Carlota Perez, Professor of Technology and Development, Nurkse Institute, TUT, Estonia, and Author of Technological Revolutions and Financial Capital: the Dynamics of Bubbles and Golden Ages * The key challenge in energy policy has become to transform national energy systems towards a low carbon paradigm. For this, scholarly debates are in need of comparative studies informed by primary data, subscribing to principles of rigorous academic inquiry. This book perfectly delivers on these fronts. * Andreas Goldthau, Professor of International Relations, Centre of International Public Policy, Royal Holloway, University of London, United Kingdom * It is increasingly clear that our pursuit of sustainable development and climate change goals is driving a great energy transition. Dr. Araujos compelling narrative deftly weaves together history, theory, and practice, providing an optimistic guide for all those who want to take well-informed action now on low carbon change, and to do so with confidence. * Mark Radka, Chief, Energy and Climate Branch, UN Environment Programme * An essential reading for all interested in transformative energy change. This book presents comprehensive, case studies of radical change in energy systems, within a broader context of the history and theory of energy-systems evolution. It provides valuable insights into how radical change can be achieved. * Nebojsa Nakicenovic, Deputy Director General/Deputy Chief Executive Officer, International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA), Austria * In a world with fear for climate change, this book offers some ground for optimism. It presents insights into how national energy systems have been radically transformed. This book will be of interest not only for students and decision-makers. It shows that all citizens have a role to play in the transition process and, perhaps most importantly, that change is possible. * Bengt-Ake Lundvall, Professor Emeritus of Economics, Aalborg University, Denmark * This well-researched and clearly written book begins with a rationale for transitioning to low carbon energy and a theoretical discussion of factors that can enable and constrain such a change.... This book will be of use and interest to researchers, students, and practitioners focusing on energy systems and sustainability. * J. L. Rhoades, CHOICE * The remarkable growth in clean energy investment over the last decade has been driven by policy and technology. The unique cases addressed by Dr. Araujo provide critical lessons as the world transitions to low carbon energy. * Mohamed El-Ashry, Senior Fellow, Energy and Climate, UN Foundation and Former CEO and Chairman, Global Environment Facility (GEF) * We are heading to a low carbon economy, both nationally and globally, and at an accelerated pace. Innovation and informed decision-making will be needed in technology, policy and regulation, and business models, all aligned for deep decarbonization on a generational time scale. Dr. Araujo's integrative approach will provide important insights for those shaping the low carbon future. * Ernest J. Moniz, 13th Secretary of Energy, USA *