The influence of endogenous and exogenous factors on the diffusion dynamics of renewable energy innovations in Argentina

Abstract

This cumulative dissertation examines the relevant dynamics for the diffusion of renewable energies in the Argentinian context. This is conducted against the background that the Argentinian power system is facing numerous challenges: a heavy dependence on thermal power generation, insufficient national natural gas production, negative energy trade balances and high energy subsidies. At the same time, Argentina has committed itself to the Paris Agreement and has set itself ambitious CO2 reduction targets for the electricity sector. Other relevant framework conditions that are considered in detail in this dissertation are the influences of macroeconomic and political instability. With its high and geographically broadly distributed potential for renewable energy in terms of different generation technologies, the country possesses excellent preconditions. These offer the opportunity to generate electricity in a cost-efficient and ecologically sustainable manner, strengthen the country's energy autonomy and help overcome structural challenges at the national level, for example low national foreign exchange reserves, through the subsequent reduction in conventional power generation. In order to comprehensively investigate the diffusion of renewable energy in Argentina, this dissertation examines both endogenous factors, such as the diffusion of knowledge and niche applications, and exogenous factors, including macroeconomic and energy-economic contexts. Specific methodological approaches were chosen to explore the complex dynamics of socio-technical systems and operationalise the different research frameworks applied. The dissertation is organised into four individual publications, each of which focuses on distinct aspects of this topic and together form the foundation for this cumulative dissertation. This research contributes to Sustainability Transition Research by applying and advancing theoretical frameworks such as the Multi-Level Perspective (MLP), Strategic Niche Management (SNM) and Technical Innovation Systems (TIS). The findings provide valuable insights into how these frameworks can be further developed to better understand the energy transition in countries of the Global South, particularly Argentina. The results also offer practical insights for policy makers and stakeholders involved in Argentina's energy transition