Speaker
Description
This study examines the potential of local energy cooperatives to accelerate a just and effective pathway toward climate neutrality in Belgium. Focusing on an in-depth case study of the ‘Living Lab Muide-Meulestede’ in the city of Ghent, the research combines Strategic Niche Management with Nancy Fraser’s three-dimensional justice framework to analyse how technological, social, and institutional factors interact in niche development, upscaling, and citizens’ involvement. Through qualitative interviews, document analysis, and triangulation with policy literature, the study highlights that energy cooperatives offer promise to democratise energy governance, promote distributive justice, and reduce energy poverty. However, substantial barriers persist. Fragmented ownership limited long-term policy alignment and difficulties engaging marginalized communities at scale reveal ongoing tensions around procedural and recognitional justice. Despite efforts to engage a diverse group of residents, power remains limited to a relatively homogeneous core.
The study concludes with targeted policy recommendations for Belgian and European stakeholders, calling for more stable frameworks, sustained support, and tailored measures to ensure that vulnerable groups are not left behind. By integrating governance innovations, stakeholder engagement, and supportive legal infrastructure, Belgium can leverage local energy cooperatives to drive both decarbonization and social resilience. These findings offer actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners assembling at the Belgian Science for Climate Action Conference.
Theoretically, this study contributes to scholarship on socio-technical transitions by extending SNM through the integration of a multi-dimensional justice lens. This interdisciplinary approach advances understanding of how equity and recognition dynamics shape niche empowerment and legitimacy in the energy transition.
| If your abstract is not accepted for an oral presentation, would you be interested in presenting it as a poster instead? | Yes |
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| If accepted by the Scientific Board, I agree to have my presentation/poster and abstract published on the Belgian Climate Centre websites and social media. | Yes |
