Christian Kerschner

Energy-Economy-Environment (E3) models feature prominently in energy policy and climate mitigation planning. Nevertheless, these models have a mixed track record when assessed retrospectively and exhibit biases that can make them counterproductive for prescriptive policy during transition. We argue that in times of energy transitions it is preferable to develop a vision of the desired future energy system rather than relying on techno-economic solutions based on simple objectives (e.g. lower carbon emissions). We support this argument through reasoned inference supported by historical examples. A critical appraisal of E3 modeling exercises highlights the biases, structural or implicit, favoring existing energy system modalities. As a result, if E3 models are uncritically used to formulate long-term energy policy, there is the risk of unintended or deliberate performativity preventing a radical transition. Given the significant learning-by-doing effects in reducing technology costs, the evolution of energy systems is path-dependent and reinforced by technology policy feedbacks. This is showcased by Germany's Energiewende. Therefore, it is preferable to prioritize a clear articulation of the vision for the future desired end-state which can be shared with stakeholders a priori. Then utilize models as exploratory tools for assessing the economics and scale of corresponding interventions. These should include focused technology policy that aims to commoditize relevant technical innovations through learning-by-doing and scale economies. Ideally such models should be open, exploratory, reflexive and incorporate the dynamics of innovation.

Author(s): Sgouris Sgouridis, Christian Kimmich, Jordi Solé, Martin Černý, Melf-Hinrich Ehlers, Christian Kerschner

Publication date: 6. 2022

Volume: 88

Issue number: June 2022

Electronic version(s), related files and links: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.erss.2022.102497

Author(s): Mario Pansera, Melf-Hinrich Ehlers, Christian Kerschner

Publication date: 2019

Volume: 114

Electronic version(s), related files and links: http://dx.doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.futures.2019.102474

Author(s): Timothée Parrique, Jonathan Barth, François Briens, Christian Kerschner, Alejo Kraus-Polk, Anna Kuokkanen, Joachim H. Spangenberg

Publication date: 2019

Publisher: European Environmental Bureau

Mainstream sustainability discourses are firmly built on the mantra that more technology leads to more economic growth, which in turn leads to more welfare and sustainability. With economic growth becoming ever more difficult and undesirable, and sustainability challenges ever more pressing, alternative post-growth and Degrowth discourses have gained momentum in the last decade. However, the role of technology on the path towards a ‘Degrowth Society’ is far from clear and subject to intense debate between enthusiasts and sceptics of technology. This editorial to the special issue on ‘Degrowth and Technology’ represents the first in-depth analysis of the multiple perspectives on technology present in the Degrowth community. Using an artistic analogy, we illustrate four main areas of exploration for a future Degrowth and Technology research agenda: 1) theoretical and conceptual approaches, 2) case studies of innovative socio-technical arrangements, 3) evaluation of technologies according to their feasibility, viability, appropriateness and conviviality and 4) governance approaches. Moreover, we identify and discuss reoccurring themes in the texts such as energy, agency and democratisation of technology and introduce new concepts such as ‘Degrowth Technology’ and 'Degrowth Society’. Finally, we offer guidance for future research and for the development of a shared socio-technological imaginary of the Degrowth community.

Author(s): Christian Kerschner, Petra Wächter, Linda Nierling, Melf-Hinrich Ehlers

Publication date: 2018

Volume: 197

Pages: 1619-1636

Electronic version(s), related files and links: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2018.07.147

Author(s): Christian Kerschner, Iñigo Capellán-Pérez

Publication date: 2017

Place of Publication Volume: London

Publisher: Routledge

Host publication editor(s): C. Spash