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The energy transition theory describes the shift from fossil fuel-based energy systems to renewable and sustainable energy solutions. This transition is not only based on switching energy sources but involves a broader transformation of political, economic, and social systems. In the regional case studies energy transition theory is evident in the way RET has been adopted to address energy poverty, improve economic conditions, and reduce carbon emissions. In both Rwanda and Tanzania, it is seen through the early stages of energy transition, especially in their adoption of off-grid solar systems. These systems represent an essential shift away from traditional, centralised energy systems to more decentralised and sustainable energy solutions. This aligns with the theory as it posits that the transition to renewable energy involves not just technological change but also institutional and infrastructural transformations. As asserted by Schiereck (2020), both countries’ adoption of decentralised energy systems demonstrates a transition toward a more localised and resilient energy model, which is particularly important in rural areas where extending the national grid is not feasible. The integration of innovative business models like PAYG in Rwanda and community-based energy cooperatives in Tanzania illustrates how energy transition theory is applied through the development of new energy governance structures that promote energy inclusivity and resilience.
In Latin America the role of the state in promoting RET is illustrated through mechanisms like feed-in tariffs, renewable energy auctions, and green bonds, which are tools for regulating and incentivising the renewable energy market. IRENA (2021b) indicated that the use of green bonds allows governments to mobilise private investments while maintaining control over how these investments contribute to national and regional development goals. Furthermore, the emphasis on job creation and economic growth driven by RET projects shows how governments use renewable energy initiatives as instruments to manage populations by promoting employment and economic activity in poorer regions. It is important to note that in all the discussed regions governmentality emphasises how governments steer and shape the transition to renewable energy by creating regulatory frameworks that align RET deployment with national development strategies, ultimately controlling the economic, environmental, and social outcomes of these projects.
It is important to note that Latin America demonstrates a more advanced stage of the energy transition, particularly in countries like Chile and Brazil, where large-scale solar and wind projects are contributing to national efforts to reduce carbon emissions. This shift reflects the broader goals of energy transition theory, which emphasises the decarbonisation of the energy sector as a key strategy for
addressing climate change. Latin America’s use of PPPs and innovative financing, such as green bonds, further underscores the role of financial innovation in facilitating the energy transition. These mechanisms help reduce the cost of renewable energy projects and attract private sector participation, which is crucial for scaling up renewable energy capacity and reducing dependency on fossil fuels. Moreover, the emphasis on job creation and local economic growth highlights how the energy transition can contribute to broader socio-economic transformation, particularly in rural areas where renewable energy projects have created thousands of jobs and stimulated economic activities (Nasirov et al. 2021).
Conclusion
The findings from these regional case studies reinforce the importance of integrating governmentality theory and energy transition theory to understand how RET can be successfully implemented to promote sustainable development. Government policies and interventions play a crucial role in shaping the adoption of renewable energy, while the energy transition involves a broader shift toward decentralised, resilient, and inclusive energy systems. Despite the significant potential of RET, several barriers hinder its widespread adoption, particularly in developing countries. It is without doubt that the adoption and implementation of RET poses challenges and has barriers in the various regions across the globe, particularly poorer regions. For instance, the upfront cost of installing renewable energy systems can be prohibitively expensive for low-income households, communities, and regions. In many developing countries the lack of access to affordable financing and credit makes it difficult for households to invest in renewable energy systems, limiting the adoption of RET. Furthermore, the lack of infrastructure for manufacturing, installing, and maintaining in developing countries has resulted in the lagging of these regions’ incorporation of RET. For example, in many rural areas there are no local suppliers or service providers for renewable energy systems, making it difficult for households to access and maintain these systems. In addition, the lack of infrastructure for electricity transmission and distribution can limit the deployment of large-scale renewable energy projects, particularly in remote and underserved areas. Policy and regulatory challenges also inhibit the integration of RET in some regions. Inconsistent or inadequate policies and regulations create uncertainty and daunt investment in renewable energy projects.
recommendations
Governments can play a crucial role in promoting renewable energy technologies (RET ) by providing financial incentives and support mechanisms such as subsidies, tax breaks, and low-interest loans, which help reduce costs and make RET more accessible to low-income households and
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