ABSTRACT
This chapter presents an in-depth case study of the Budapest context for energy transitions, investigating the implications of local contextual characteristics for emerging governance networks and their role in low-carbon energy transitions. The analysis of the context is based on three key change factors which have been linked to influencing the move towards network forms of governance in addition to hierarchies and markets. First, the dispersion of powers, authority and resources in energy systems governance (societal and organisational fragmentation). Second, the locally perceived complexity of energy transitions (complexity in contemporary decision-making). Third, the development of the sustainability agenda over time (new societal dynamics related to a shift from ‘government’ to ‘governance’). The context analysis points to various interconnected processes that hinder participation and integration among actors from the public and market sectors and community/voluntary organisations – and consequently, the move towards network forms of governance. The strong presence of national government in energy policy and interventions led to a lack of commitment from the City Council to champion local low-carbon development in the energy sector. As a result, energy transitions are characterised by the modernisation of existing infrastructures, and a lack of experimentation with network forms of governance.
