Local Energy Transitions: Framework and Benefits

The focus of this chapter is on the success factors of local energy transition and its potential benefits to local communities and society in general. In this decentralized approach, local municipalities will play a key role. An important question is which determinants support the process toward local energy transition. Therefore, an analytic framework is presented. The 3-Levels-Model is a holistic approach considering local context, a macro, and a microframework. It highlights the dependency of the process from the local context and a sound national transition policy. The model summarizes the complex interrelationships of local energy transition and will enable local communities, networks, and citizens to successfully engage in an energy transition process. Finally, the chapter discusses the benefits of the local energy transition that go far beyond climate protection through CO2 reduction.