In an open-access study, Thomas Bauwens (Rotterdam School of Management), Robert Wade (Eindhoven University of Technology) and Matthew Burke (University of Vermont) argue that while renewable energy sources are crucial, more systemic changes are needed.

“Energy commons offer a more democratic and sustainable pathway, moving beyond market and state-led models.”

The paper, published in the journal Energy Research and Social Science, takes as a starting point the failure of market-driven approaches to tackle the climate crisis at the necessary scale and speed.

The article “The energy commons: A systematic review, paradoxes, and ways forward” is based on a systematic review of 85 articles. The authors aim to unify the field by analyzing it across three dimensions: material, institutional, and cultural. They identify five paradoxes in energy commons literature and propose ways forward:

1. Alternative to capitalism vs. risk of co-optation: Energy commons counter capitalist norms but risk being co-opted. Pathway: Strengthen autonomy through prefigurative politics and build resilient networks.
2. Inclusivity vs. exclusivity: Energy commons aim for inclusivity but can unintentionally exclude some groups. Pathway: Build adaptable communities that evolve through shared practices, not fixed categories.
3. Western focus vs. the pluriverse: Despite promoting diverse ways of knowing, research remains Western-centric. Pathway: Embrace a pluriverse approach by integrating Indigenous and non-Western perspectives.
4. Decentralization vs. coordinated governance: Local autonomy is crucial, yet global energy challenges demand multi-scale coordination. Pathway: Adopt polycentric models that link local initiatives with broader networks.
5. Focus on generation & distribution vs. whole value chain: Focus often stops at production, missing upstream and downstream impacts. Pathway: Embrace a full value chain approach, from resource extraction to waste management.

According to the authors, future research should focus on how energy commons can be scaled, challenge prevailing structures, and be managed across the full value chain to ensure equitable and sustainable futures.