Power Shift: The Global Political Economy of Energy Transitions

Energy transitions are fundamental to achieving a zero-carbon economy. This book explains the urgently needed transition in energy systems from the perspective of the global political economy. It develops an historical global political and ecological account of key features of energy transitions: from their production and financing to how they are governed and mobilised. Informed by direct engagement in projects of energy transition the book provides an accessible account of the real-world dilemmas in accelerating transitions to a low carbon economy. As well as changes to technology markets institutions and behaviours Power Shift shows that shifts in power relations between and within countries and across social groups and political actors are required if the world is to move onto a more sustainable path. Using contemporary and historical case studies to explore energy transitions it will be of interest to students and researchers across disciplines policymakers and activists.