Power Shift
The Global Political Economy of Energy Transitions

A novel, interdisciplinary account of the global politics of producing, financing, governing and mobilising energy system transformation.

Peter Newell (Author)

9781108832854, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 15 April 2021

350 pages
15 x 25 x 2.5 cm, 0.68 kg

'Recommended.' T. Brennan, Choice

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.

1. Introduction: the global political economy of energy transitions
2. Theorising energy transitions
3. Producing
4. Financing
5. Governing
6. Mobilising energy transitions
7. Conclusions.

Subject Areas: Alternative & renewable energy sources & technology [THX], Sustainability [RNU], Energy & natural resources law [LNCR], Energy industries & utilities [KNB], Political economy [KCP], Environmental economics [KCN], International relations [JPS]