Schmid, Benjamin (2019). Energy cooperatives in Switzerland: a study of energy cooperatives and their interrelations with local governments in the Swiss federalist system. (Thesis). Universität Bern, Bern

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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.

Item Type:	Thesis
Dissertation Type:	Cumulative
Date of Defense:	9 October 2019
Subjects:	300 Social sciences, sociology & anthropology > 320 Political science
Institute / Center:	08 Faculty of Science > Institute of Geography
Depositing User:	Hammer Igor
Date Deposited:	23 Dec 2021 16:43
Last Modified:	23 Dec 2021 16:49
URI:	https://boristheses.unibe.ch/id/eprint/3248

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