Changing Networks of Power: A Theoretical Approach to the Study of Capitalized Power in Contemporary Energy Transitions

Changing Networks of Power: A Theoretical Approach to the Study of Capitalized Power in Contemporary Energy Transitions
Levi, Tia and Israel, Emil. (2024). Energy Research & Social Science. Vol. 112. No. 103495. June. pp. 1-9. (Article - Journal; English).

Full Text Available As:

Preview	Cover Image 20240600_levi_israel_changing_networks_of_power_front.jpg Download (157kB) | Preview
Preview	PDF (Full Text -- Submitted version) 20240600_levi_israel_changing_networks_of_power_submitted.pdf Download (438kB) | Preview

Alternative Locations

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2214629624000860

Abstract or Brief Description

This paper presents a theoretical approach to the study of power in energy transitions that builds upon Capital as Power (CasP) theory and the critique of neoclassical growth theory. The approach integrates an understanding of capitalist power relations and a consideration of changes in societal energy capture. The approach includes two levels of social power — a deep level, in which the socio-technical conditions of power accumulation are predetermined; and a surface level, in which social dynamics of creation, sabotage, and distribution unfold. It conceptualizes the relations between differential accumulation strategies, societal energy capture rates, and socio-technical change processes. Renewable-resource-based decarbonization is historically unprecedented, in two fundamental respects. First, since it seeks to replace, not augment, the established set of socio-technical practices, inversing the historical trajectory towards higher energy density systems. Second, since these processes threaten to reconfigure power relations that have historically exhibited a coupled growth in hierarchy and energy capture. Thus, a perspective on energy transitions is needed that accounts for the mutual effects of socio-technical change and organized power, under a set of specific historical conditions: global capital and the manifestation of planetary boundaries. To fully understand the power within energy transitions, we must study them from the perspective of differential accumulation — the driving force behind capital. With this context in mind, the dynamics of organized power and socio-technical change can become comprehensible.

Language

English

Publication Type

Article - Journal

Keywords

energy transition power accumulation capital energy regime

Subject

BN Power
BN Policy
BN Production
BN Science & Technology
BN State & Government
BN Value & Price
BN Business Enterprise
BN Capital & Accumulation
BN Conflict & Violence
BN Distribution
BN Ecology & Environment
BN Growth
BN Industrial Organization
BN Institutions

Depositing User

Jonathan Nitzan

Date Deposited

24 Dec 2025 21:48

Last Modified

24 Dec 2025 21:48

URL:

https://bnarchives.net/id/eprint/878

Actions (login required)

View Item