Towards a participatory renewable energy transition in Latin America : social enterprises and the promotion of decentralized solar energy systems

Abstract

Renewable energies are indispensable for Latin America to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, mitigate climate change and increase energy security. To reach these goals, the countries of the region trust in large-scale projects, technological advances and sound investment conditions.

“Towards a participatory renewable energy transition in Latin America: Social enterprises and the promotion of decentralized solar energy systems” investigates the limitations and challenges of this techno-economic approach. The thesis explores why the future generation and supply of energy must be embedded in a more participatory framework to be truly sustainable and fair. The Argentinean company Colectando Sol embodies this vision, as it encourages a widespread involvement of citizens in the energy transition through the promotion and production of solar power.