Wasted energy : unlocking the biogas potential in Trinidad and Tobago : a transition theory perspective

Trinidad and Tobago is heavily dependent on fossil fuels and the attendant challenges from its consumption have sparked a growing interest in the capacity of renewable energies to remedy some of these issues. Biogas has been earmarked as one possible alternative, particularly in light of the problems with waste management however, efforts to initiate its usage have been negligible. This study therefore aims to explore how biogas production can be integrated locally to alleviate these problems. The assessment is empirically illustrated with a qualitative, single case study based on the Beetham Landfill, with input from documents, interviews and observations. The Transition Theory based on the Multi-Level Perspective provided the analytical framework and through it the key driving forces and barriers of this transition process were determined. To overcome the current fossil fuel ‘lock-in’, the transformation in the energy sector was found to involve a dual transition in both the energy and waste sectors. Further to this Trinidad and Tobago was aligned with a reconfiguration transition pathway, which contrary to the theoretical convention is a regime-based transition. It was recommended that these regime actors facilitate financial inducements, enabling environments and societal changes to activate the process. Strategic Niche Management was identified be a suitable and useful management tool for steering this process and broader scale linkages with strong sustainability were also established. It is anticipated that collectively, these elements can contribute to the transition to a sustainably oriented energy system