Energy cooperatives in Switzerland
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BORIS DOI
Subtitle
a study of energy cooperatives and their interrelations with local governments in the Swiss federalist system
Abstract
This PhD thesis presents the first comprehensive analysis of energy cooperatives in Switzerland—the production of renewable energy organized on a cooperative basis. Drawing on approaches of interactive and multi-level governance, the conditions are examined under which energy cooperatives operate and contribute to the Swiss energy transition. The results of a survey and of four case studies portray these energy cooperatives not as isolated actors but as deeply embedded in local governance structures. While their development is found to be contingent upon support by municipalities, energy cooperatives also appear as suitable partners for municipalities to implement local energy policy. Building on these insights, the thesis elaborates an argument on the beneficial nature of federalist structures for collaboration between energy cooperatives and municipalities and thus for a citizen-oriented energy transition.
Date of Publication
2021
Year of graduation
2019
Theses Type
dissertation
Language(s)
en
de
Author(s)
Schmid, Benjamin |
Faculty/Graduate School
Institute
Access(Rights)
open.access
Primary OA Publication
true