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Citation: Awolesi, O.; Salter, C.A.;
Reams, M. A Systematic Review on
the Path to Inclusive and Sustainable
Energy Transitions. Energies 2024,17,
3512. https://doi.org/10.3390/
en17143512
Academic Editor: Ignacio Mauleón
Received: 22 May 2024
Revised: 10 July 2024
Accepted: 12 July 2024
Published: 17 July 2024
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energies
Review
A Systematic Review on the Path to Inclusive and Sustainable
Energy Transitions
Oluwafemi Awolesi 1,2,* , Corinne A. Salter 1and Margaret Reams 1, *
1Department of Environmental Sciences, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA;
csalte4@lsu.edu
2Bert S. Turner Department of Construction Management, Louisiana State University,
Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
*Correspondence: oawole1@lsu.edu (O.A.); mreams@lsu.edu (M.R.)
Abstract: This paper surveys the energy literature and systematically reviews the path to an inclusive
and sustainable energy transition by exploring factors that drive the current energy transitions,
countries with advanced energy transition programs, and the roles of energy literacy and justice
in energy transition. Utilizing an exhaustive literature search from 2001 to 2023 via the Scopus
database, the study identifies strong policy frameworks, technological advancements, economic
incentives, and international collaborations as pivotal factors in successful energy transitions. Case
studies from the Nordic countries, Germany, and Poland highlight diverse approaches and significant
progress, revealing valuable lessons for global application. Although energy literacy emerges as
crucial for public acceptance and participation, fostering informed decision-making and supportive
behaviors toward renewable energy initiatives, energy justice ensures equitable access to the benefits
of energy transitions, addressing socio-economic impacts on marginalized communities. The study
identifies a scarcity of research that articulates and integrates energy literacy and justice concurrently
within the purview of energy transition. The paper recommends the adoption, integration, and
institutionalization of frameworks that concurrently propagate energy literacy and guide fair and
equitable energy transitions. The frameworks should encourage active community involvement,
promote community ownership of renewable energy projects, ensure transparency and inclusivity,
implement measures for equitable economic benefits, protect livelihoods, address historical distrust,
and leverage social media to promote energy literacy and justice. Finally, the continuous monitoring
and evaluation of energy transition initiatives are crucial to ensure that they meet evolving societal
needs and environmental goals.
Keywords: energy literacy; energy justice; energy transition; renewable energy; case studies; sustainability
1. Introduction
1.1. Background
Energy consumption is a fundamental driver of the global climate crisis. The twenty-
first century has witnessed extensive discussions, in academic circles, political arenas, and
in many nations about transitioning from fossil fuels to more sustainable and renewable
energy systems. Yet, a persistent global tension exists between the urgent need for climate
action and the continued reliance on conventional energy systems [
1
,
2
]. On one hand, we
face the critical challenge of developing a clean energy economy that leaves no one behind,
especially the most vulnerable populations, both locally and globally [
3
–
5
]. On the other
hand, questions arise regarding the sufficiency of renewable and cleaner energy sources in
sustaining national and global economies [6,7].
Central to this transition is the concept of energy literacy, which encompasses the
knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to make informed energy-related decisions. The
United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), otherwise known as the Global
Energies 2024,17, 3512. https://doi.org/10.3390/en17143512 https://www.mdpi.com/journal/energies
Energies 2024,17, 3512 2 of 17
Goals, place emphasis on 17 crucial areas necessary to attain sustainable development in
the world. Of all these, Quality Education is aimed at ensuring that individuals have equal
opportunities to learning and become enlightened to make critical and informed choices
that can change their lives, their local communities, and the world in general. This goal
underpins the acceleration towards achieving other SDGs, such as Affordable and Clean
Energy, Climate Action, and Reduced Inequalities.
Indeed, informed societies are better equipped to advocate for and implement sustain-
able energy solutions, address climate change proactively, and champion the rights and
needs of the underprivileged, ensuring a holistic approach to sustainability [8–10].
While energy literacy is crucial for fostering public understanding and support for
sustainable energy policies and practices [
11
], energy justice, another pivotal concept,
seeks to address the ethical and equity dimensions of energy production and consump-
tion [
12
–
14
]. It emphasizes the fair distribution of energy benefits and burdens, ensuring
that all communities, particularly marginalized ones, have access to clean and affordable
energy [15].
As the world moves towards a more sustainable energy future, it is imperative to
consider the factors that drive the current, and perhaps successful, transition states while
exploring the roles of both energy literacy and justice to achieve a more inclusive en-
ergy transition.
1.2. Scope of the Study
1.2.1. Rationale
Despite the growing recognition of energy literacy and justice [
11
,
16
], there is a scarcity
of comprehensive studies examining their concurrent roles in the energy transition. This
review aims to fill this gap by analyzing the intersection of these concepts and their impact
on the transition to sustainable energy systems. By exploring the current state of research,
identifying key drivers, and highlighting successful case studies, this paper seeks to provide
a holistic understanding of the factors that influence energy transitions and the role of
literacy and justice in this process.
1.2.2. Objectives
The primary objectives of this study are as follows:
1. Identify and analyze the key factors driving current energy transitions.
2.
Highlight specific countries with advanced energy transition programs and examine
their policies, strategies, or frameworks.
3. Explore the roles of energy literacy and justice in energy transitions.
4. Provide recommendations for future research and policy development.
1.3. Methodology
This study employs a systematic review approach, exploring the path to an inclusive
and sustainable energy transition. The methodology consists of two main components: a
bibliometric analysis and a thematic content analysis.
Bibliometric analysis is a quantitative research method that involves systematically
examining data embedded within scientific publications [
17
,
18
]. This approach provides
insights into the patterns of research activity, such as publication trends, citation counts, au-
thorship, and collaboration networks, thereby highlighting influential works and emerging
areas of study [
19
]. Tools such as VOSviewer and Gephi are often used to create visual rep-
resentations of citation networks and co-authorship patterns, making it easier to interpret
complex relationships within the data [20].
Thematic content analysis is a qualitative research method that involves identifying,
analyzing, and reporting patterns (themes) within data. This approach is widely used to
interpret various aspects of the research topic systematically. Thematic analysis provides
a flexible and useful research tool, which can potentially provide a rich and detailed, yet
complex, account of data [21].
Energies 2024,17, 3512 3 of 17
The process typically involves several stages: familiarizing with the data, generat-
ing initial codes, searching for themes, reviewing themes, defining and naming themes,
and producing the report. This systematic approach ensures that the analysis is both
comprehensive and detailed, providing a nuanced understanding of the research topic [
22
].
The PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses)
flowchart in Figure 1provides a visual summary of the steps involved in the literature
search, screening, eligibility assessment, and inclusion of studies for this review.
Energies 2024, 17, x FOR PEER REVIEW 3 of 18
Thematic content analysis is a qualitative research method that involves identifying,
analyzing, and reporting paerns (themes) within data. This approach is widely used to
interpret various aspects of the research topic systematically. Thematic analysis provides
a flexible and useful research tool, which can potentially provide a rich and detailed, yet
complex, account of data [21].
The process typically involves several stages: familiarizing with the data, generating
initial codes, searching for themes, reviewing themes, defining and naming themes, and
producing the report. This systematic approach ensures that the analysis is both compre-
hensive and detailed, providing a nuanced understanding of the research topic [22].
The PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses)
flowchart in Figure 1 provides a visual summary of the steps involved in the literature
search, screening, eligibility assessment, and inclusion of studies for this review.
Figure 1. PRISMA flowchart for study selection process.
The findings from this analysis offer valuable insights into the dynamic and intercon-
nected nature of energy transitions, illustrating how various factors and concepts work
together to facilitate these processes.
1.3.1. Literature Search
An exhaustive literature search was conducted using the Scopus database, recog-
nized for its extensive coverage of peer-reviewed articles across various disciplines
Figure 1. PRISMA flowchart for study selection process.
The findings from this analysis offer valuable insights into the dynamic and intercon-
nected nature of energy transitions, illustrating how various factors and concepts work
together to facilitate these processes.
1.3.1. Literature Search
An exhaustive literature search was conducted using the Scopus database, recognized
for its extensive coverage of peer-reviewed articles across various disciplines including
Energies 2024,17, 3512 4 of 17
energy and environment [
23
]. The search targeted documents published from 2001 to 2023
that contained the terms ‘Energy Literacy’, ‘Energy Transition’, OR ‘Energy Justice’ in their
titles, abstracts, or keywords. This initial search yielded a total of 17,773 documents.
1.3.2. Refinement and Selection
To refine the search results, the query was narrowed using the terms ‘Energy Literacy’
OR ‘Energy Education’ AND ‘Energy Transition’ AND ‘Energy Justice’, which reduced the
number of relevant documents to 48. A bibliometric analysis of the documents ensued,
identifying 33 original research articles. A thorough review of the full text for the concurrent
use of the keywords led to the identification of 11 research articles, indicating a scarcity in
the concurrent usage of the energy terms in scholarly works.
1.3.3. Data Analysis
The 48 articles were subjected to a detailed bibliometric analysis to identify publication
trends including keyword co-occurrence, collaboration and citation, and document type.
Following this, a thematic content analysis on the 11 articles from the final selection was
conducted to answer the following pivotal questions:
1. What are the driving factors behind current energy transitions?
2. Which case studies best exemplify successful or ongoing energy transitions?
3. How do energy literacy and justice contribute to these transitions?
1.3.4. Case Study Selection
Three regions with advanced energy transition programs—Nordic countries (e.g.,
Denmark), Germany, and Poland—were selected for detailed case studies. The analysis
focused on examining the policies, strategies, and frameworks implemented by these
countries, as well as the challenges and successes they encountered.
2. Bibliometric Analysis
The refined search resulted in 48 documents spanning the years 2015 to 2023, tanta-
mount to 0.27% of the original search results, suggesting that a limited number of studies
attempt to address how energy literacy and justice impact energy transition initiatives.
The publication period also suggests that studies integrating all three energy terms have
only emerged within the last decade. The following sections report findings from other
segments of bibliometric analysis, including top keywords and key publications.
2.1. Keyword Co-Occurrence
Reduction in redundancy and repetition was achieved by consolidating terms such as
‘renewable energies’, ‘energy transitions’, and ‘energy justices’ into their singular forms.
From the initial set of 391 keywords, only 69 met the minimum occurrence threshold of
two. Figure 2illustrates a keyword network where each keyword is represented by a
node, with its magnitude indicating its frequency. The strands between nodes signify
co-occurrence. Notably, ‘energy transition’ is both the most frequently occurring and the
most co-occurring keyword, followed by the generic term ‘energy’. Although ‘energy
justice’ records a slightly higher occurrence than ‘energy policy’, it is surpassed by the latter
in terms of co-occurrence. Other prominent keywords include ‘energy literacy’, ‘renewable
energy’, ‘alternative energy’, and ‘energy efficiency’.
This analysis provides an overview of keyword importance and relationships, aiding in
understanding the thematic landscape of the research. The findings could guide researchers
to focus on these key terms and their interrelations, potentially identifying gaps or areas
for further investigation in the field of energy studies.
Energies 2024,17, 3512 5 of 17
Energies 2024, 17, x FOR PEER REVIEW 5 of 18
Figure 2. Keyword co-occurrence network.
2.2. Collaboration and Citation Counts by Country of Affiliation
Productivity trends are evident through institutional and author collaborations as
well as citation frequencies associated with research publications [24]. Thus, collaboration
paerns and citation frequency among researchers from various countries are depicted in
Figure 3. The United Kingdom exhibits the highest number of research outputs, surpas-
sing Germany and Denmark which lead the other 32 countries involved in the study.
These countries also demonstrate significant international collaboration, as indicated by
the connecting strands. In terms of citations, the United Kingdom is followed by Germany,
Norway, and Denmark. Further analysis reveals a positive correlation (r = 0.56) between
citation counts and the extent of collaboration, suggesting that collaborative research ef-
forts tend to receive more citations.
Another important revelation is that countries with the highest number of citations
and collaborations are in Europe. This finding is similar to the one reported by Kwiek [25],
which aributes the growth in publications in European systems to internationally co-
authored studies. This indicates that Europe is a central hub for high-impact research in
the studied field. However, while the United Kingdom leads in terms of researchers’ affil-
iations, the United States, Canada, Denmark, Norway, The Netherlands, and Australia
follow in the spectrum, in decreasing order, as depicted in Figure 4. This suggests that
despite the leadership of the United Kingdom, other countries also contribute significantly
to the research landscape.
Figure 2. Keyword co-occurrence network.
2.2. Collaboration and Citation Counts by Country of Affiliation
Productivity trends are evident through institutional and author collaborations as
well as citation frequencies associated with research publications [
24
]. Thus, collaboration
patterns and citation frequency among researchers from various countries are depicted in
Figure 3. The United Kingdom exhibits the highest number of research outputs, surpassing
Germany and Denmark which lead the other 32 countries involved in the study. These
countries also demonstrate significant international collaboration, as indicated by the
connecting strands. In terms of citations, the United Kingdom is followed by Germany,
Norway, and Denmark. Further analysis reveals a positive correlation (r = 0.56) between
citation counts and the extent of collaboration, suggesting that collaborative research efforts
tend to receive more citations.
Another important revelation is that countries with the highest number of citations
and collaborations are in Europe. This finding is similar to the one reported by Kwiek [
25
],
which attributes the growth in publications in European systems to internationally co-
authored studies. This indicates that Europe is a central hub for high-impact research
in the studied field. However, while the United Kingdom leads in terms of researchers’
affiliations, the United States, Canada, Denmark, Norway, The Netherlands, and Australia
follow in the spectrum, in decreasing order, as depicted in Figure 4. This suggests that
despite the leadership of the United Kingdom, other countries also contribute significantly
to the research landscape.
Energies 2024,17, 3512 6 of 17
Energies 2024, 17, x FOR PEER REVIEW 6 of 18
Figure 3. Countries and their collaboration frequency represented by connecting strands with cita-
tion frequency represented by nodal magnitude.
Figure 4. Geographic distribution of researchers’ affiliations by country.
2.3. Top Key Publications and Document Classifications
Figure 5 displays the average citations per publication from 2015 to 2023. In 2015, the
average citations per publication start at around 80. From 2015 to 2017, there is a slight
decline in average citations, dropping from around 80 to 70. A significant increase occurs
Figure 3. Countries and their collaboration frequency represented by connecting strands with citation
frequency represented by nodal magnitude.
Energies 2024, 17, x FOR PEER REVIEW 6 of 18
Figure 3. Countries and their collaboration frequency represented by connecting strands with cita-
tion frequency represented by nodal magnitude.
Figure 4. Geographic distribution of researchers’ affiliations by country.
2.3. Top Key Publications and Document Classifications
Figure 5 displays the average citations per publication from 2015 to 2023. In 2015, the
average citations per publication start at around 80. From 2015 to 2017, there is a slight
decline in average citations, dropping from around 80 to 70. A significant increase occurs
Figure 4. Geographic distribution of researchers’ affiliations by country.
2.3. Top Key Publications and Document Classifications
Figure 5displays the average citations per publication from 2015 to 2023. In 2015, the
average citations per publication start at around 80. From 2015 to 2017, there is a slight
decline in average citations, dropping from around 80 to 70. A significant increase occurs
in 2018, where the average citations jump to over 100. A sharp drop is observed in 2019,
Energies 2024,17, 3512 7 of 17
followed by another spike in 2020, bringing the average citations back to over 100. From
2021 onwards, there is a steady decline in average citations, decreasing from around 80 to
almost zero by 2023.
Energies 2024, 17, x FOR PEER REVIEW 7 of 18
in 2018, where the average citations jump to over 100. A sharp drop is observed in 2019,
followed by another spike in 2020, bringing the average citations back to over 100. From
2021 onwards, there is a steady decline in average citations, decreasing from around 80 to
almost zero by 2023.
Figure 5. Citation trends over time.
The sharp fluctuations in 2018 and 2020 could be aributed to highly influential pub-
lications during those years or significant advancements in the field that garnered wide-
spread aention and citations.
An overview of the most influential publications in the field, based on citation counts,
is provided in Table 1. The overview includes the authorship, citation count, document
type, affiliated country of the first author, and the publication year.
Most influential authors are affiliated with institutions in Norway, Germany, Den-
mark, the United Kingdom, and Sweden. Norway is particularly notable, with two highly
cited publications, emphasizing its leading role in this research area. The citation leaders
are Szulecki [26] with an original research article of 262 citations and Vanegas Cantarero
[27] with a review article of 196 citations.
Notably, the reviews from 2020 have quickly garnered significant citations, under-
scoring their relevance and timeliness. The prominence of both articles and reviews
among the most cited works demonstrates the field’s appreciation for diverse types of
scholarly contributions. The recent high-impact publications indicate ongoing active re-
search and evolving discussions in this area.
Generally, the bibliography encompasses a diverse range of document types, includ-
ing original research articles, literature reviews, conference contributions, and book pub-
lications (see Figure 6). Original research articles constitute the majority at 68.8%, under-
lining their primary role in advancing knowledge in the field. Reviews account for 16.7%
and are pivotal in synthesizing existing research, providing valuable insights for both re-
searchers and practitioners. In contrast, conference papers make up only 4.2% of the bib-
liography, indicating a lesser impact from conference proceedings on the scholarly dis-
course surrounding energy literacy, transition, and justice.
Table 1. Analysis of top key publications.
Author (Publication Year) Citation Count Document Type Affiliated Country of First Author
Szulecki (2018) [26] 262 Article Norway
Vanegas Cantarero (2020) [27] 196 Review Germany
Sovacool (2017) [28] 107 Article Denmark; United Kingdom
Figure 5. Citation trends over time.
The sharp fluctuations in 2018 and 2020 could be attributed to highly influential
publications during those years or significant advancements in the field that garnered
widespread attention and citations.
An overview of the most influential publications in the field, based on citation counts,
is provided in Table 1. The overview includes the authorship, citation count, document
type, affiliated country of the first author, and the publication year.
Table 1. Analysis of top key publications.
Author (Publication Year) Citation Count Document Type Affiliated Country of First Author
Szulecki (2018) [26] 262 Article Norway
Vanegas Cantarero (2020) [27] 196 Review Germany
Sovacool (2017) [28] 107 Article Denmark; United Kingdom
Szulecki and Overland (2020) [
29
]
92 Review Norway
Islar et al. (2017) [30] 73 Article Sweden
Most influential authors are affiliated with institutions in Norway, Germany, Denmark,
the United Kingdom, and Sweden. Norway is particularly notable, with two highly cited
publications, emphasizing its leading role in this research area. The citation leaders are
Szulecki [
26
] with an original research article of 262 citations and Vanegas Cantarero [
27
]
with a review article of 196 citations.
Notably, the reviews from 2020 have quickly garnered significant citations, underscor-
ing their relevance and timeliness. The prominence of both articles and reviews among
the most cited works demonstrates the field’s appreciation for diverse types of scholarly
contributions. The recent high-impact publications indicate ongoing active research and
evolving discussions in this area.
Generally, the bibliography encompasses a diverse range of document types, including
original research articles, literature reviews, conference contributions, and book publica-
tions (see Figure 6). Original research articles constitute the majority at 68.8%, underlining
their primary role in advancing knowledge in the field. Reviews account for 16.7% and are
pivotal in synthesizing existing research, providing valuable insights for both researchers
Energies 2024,17, 3512 8 of 17
and practitioners. In contrast, conference papers make up only 4.2% of the bibliogra-
phy, indicating a lesser impact from conference proceedings on the scholarly discourse
surrounding energy literacy, transition, and justice.
Energies 2024, 17, x FOR PEER REVIEW 8 of 18
Szulecki and Overland (2020) [29] 92 Review Norway
Islar et al. (2017) [30] 73 Article Sweden
Figure 6. Document classifications.
3. Thematic Analysis
This section ultimately presents findings from the thematic content analysis explor-
ing factors that drive current energy transitions, countries with advanced energy transi-
tion programs, and the roles of energy literacy and justice in advancing energy transition
initiatives. Figure 7 provides an illustration of how different factors and concepts inter-
connect in driving energy transition.
Figure 7. Concept map illustrating the interconnectedness of different factors driving energy tran-
sition.
Figure 6. Document classifications.
3. Thematic Analysis
This section ultimately presents findings from the thematic content analysis exploring
factors that drive current energy transitions, countries with advanced energy transition
programs, and the roles of energy literacy and justice in advancing energy transition initia-
tives. Figure 7provides an illustration of how different factors and concepts interconnect
in driving energy transition.
Energies 2024, 17, x FOR PEER REVIEW 8 of 18
Szulecki and Overland (2020) [29] 92 Review Norway
Islar et al. (2017) [30] 73 Article Sweden
Figure 6. Document classifications.
3. Thematic Analysis
This section ultimately presents findings from the thematic content analysis explor-
ing factors that drive current energy transitions, countries with advanced energy transi-
tion programs, and the roles of energy literacy and justice in advancing energy transition
initiatives. Figure 7 provides an illustration of how different factors and concepts inter-
connect in driving energy transition.
Figure 7. Concept map illustrating the interconnectedness of different factors driving energy tran-
sition.
Figure 7. Concept map illustrating the interconnectedness of different factors driving energy transition.
Energies 2024,17, 3512 9 of 17
3.1. Factors Driving Current Energy Transitions
Energy transitions are driven by a complex interplay of factors, including policy
initiatives, technological advancements, economic incentives, and international agreements
and collaborations. This section analyzes these key drivers, providing examples from the
reviewed documents, and discusses the role of international agreements in promoting
energy transitions.
3.1.1. Policy Initiatives
Policy initiatives are crucial in steering the direction of energy transitions. Govern-
ments implement a range of policies to incentivize the adoption of renewable energy and
phase out fossil fuels. These policies include subsidies, tax incentives, renewable energy
mandates, and carbon pricing mechanisms.
For instance, Denmark has been a pioneer in promoting renewable energy through
robust policy frameworks since the 1970s [
31
]. The Danish government implemented poli-
cies that supported wind electricity, combined heat and power, and district heating. These
efforts were complemented by a carbon tax and energy efficiency measures, positioning
Denmark as a leader in renewable energy adoption [26,32].
Similarly, the European Union (EU) has played a significant role in guiding member
states towards achieving climate targets and energy transitions. The EU’s comprehensive
energy policies and strategies have set ambitious targets for renewable energy adoption
and greenhouse gas emission reductions, encouraging member states to align their national
policies accordingly [33].
This highlights the importance of government intervention and strategic policy plan-
ning in achieving sustainable energy transitions.
3.1.2. Technological Advancements
Technological advancements are at the heart of energy transitions, making renewable
energy sources more efficient and cost-effective. Innovations in wind and solar power
technologies have significantly reduced the cost of these energy sources, making them
competitive with traditional fossil fuels [26,34].
The development of smart energy technologies, such as smart meters and demand
response systems, has improved grid reliability and demand management [
35
,
36
]. These
technologies enable the better integration of renewable energy into the grid, enhancing the
overall efficiency and stability of energy systems.
These advancements are crucial in driving energy transitions by making renewable en-
ergy sources more competitive with fossil fuels. The improved grid reliability and demand
management facilitated by smart technologies support the large-scale adoption of renew-
ables and ensure a smoother transition from fossil fuels to sustainable energy solutions.
3.1.3. Economic Incentives
Economic incentives are vital for overcoming the financial barriers associated with
renewable energy projects. These incentives include subsidies, tax credits, and funding for
research and development [
37
]. By reducing the initial costs, economic incentives make
renewable energy projects more attractive to local investors and consumers [38,39].
In many countries, economic incentives have been instrumental in promoting the
adoption of renewable energy. For example, subsidies and tax credits have encouraged
investments in wind and solar power, leading to significant increases in installed capacity
and generation [
40
,
41
]. Additionally, investments in smart grids and distributed energy
resources have been driven by the economic benefits they offer, such as improved efficiency
and reduced energy costs [42].
However, studies by various researchers have highlighted significant challenges in
evaluating the economic and environmental impacts of smart grids. The conflicting and
widely varying estimates of costs, benefits, greenhouse gas emission reductions, and energy
savings leave policymakers struggling with how to advise on smart grid deployment.
Energies 2024,17, 3512 10 of 17
For instance, a systematic review of seventeen studies by Moretti et al. [
43
] revealed no
standardized method for assessing smart grid systems, with costs varying between EUR
0.03 and EUR 1143 million per year and benefits ranging from EUR 0.04 to EUR 804 million
per year. This suggests that, unlike the clear-cut economic benefits seen with subsidies for
wind and solar power, investments in smart grid systems may not always yield economic
benefits due to the inconsistency in evaluation methods.
3.1.4. International Agreements and Collaborations
International agreements and collaborations are crucial for global energy transitions.
Agreements like the Paris Agreement set ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas
emissions, driving national policies and initiatives aimed at achieving these targets [44].
Collaborations between countries facilitate the sharing of knowledge, technologies,
and best practices. The Nordic countries, for example, have collaborated on energy policies
and technologies, setting a model for regional cooperation in energy transitions [
28
]. Their
focus on renewable energy sources, energy efficiency, and regional cooperation has resulted
in significant progress in their energy transitions.
The key factors driving current energy transitions include policy initiatives, technolog-
ical advancements, economic incentives, and international agreements and collaborations.
By continuing to promote these drivers, countries can accelerate their transition to re-
newable energy and achieve their climate goals. These findings emphasize the need for
continued innovation, collaboration, and supportive policies to drive the global shift to-
wards sustainable energy systems.
3.2. Countries with Advanced Energy Transition Programs
This section highlights specific countries that have made significant strides in advanc-
ing their energy transition programs. It examines the policies, strategies, and/or frame-
works these countries have implemented, compares their programs to identify common
successful elements and unique approaches, and encapsulates their progress, challenges,
and outcomes.
3.2.1. Progressive Countries
Countries that have been particularly successful in advancing their energy transition
programs include the Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden),
Germany, and Poland. Each of these countries has implemented comprehensive policies
and strategies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing the share of
renewable energy in their energy mix.
3.2.2. Policies, Strategies, and Frameworks
Nordic Countries
The Nordic countries are renowned for their ambitious climate and energy policies.
Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden have committed to becoming virtually
fossil fuel-free by 2050 [
28
,
45
]. These countries have focused on promoting decentralized
and renewable forms of electricity supply, enhancing energy efficiency, and adopting carbon
capture and storage technologies for industry [28].
For instance, Denmark has been a pioneer in wind energy, combined heat and power,
and district heating. The country has also implemented a carbon tax, with revenues
funneled back into energy research and development [
28
]. On the other hand, Finland and
Sweden are leaders in bioenergy, with substantial investments in biomass and waste-to-
energy technologies [
46
,
47
]. However, Norway relies heavily on hydroelectricity and is a
major exporter of renewable energy [
48
]. The country has also made significant investments
in electric vehicle infrastructure [
49
]. Iceland has harnessed its geothermal resources to
become a leader in geothermal energy production, particularly for heating and electricity
generation [50,51].
Energies 2024,17, 3512 11 of 17
The Nordic countries benefit from regional cooperation on energy policies and tech-
nologies, which has helped them achieve significant progress in energy transitions. This
implies that significant successes can be achieved by having a shared focused vision and
blueprints that are not only meaningful but also measurable and in alignment with univer-
sal environmental goals.
Germany and Poland
Germany’s energy transition, known as the Energiewende, is one of the most ambitious
and comprehensive energy policies globally, with the phase-out of nuclear energy decreed
in 2011 ahead of the next decade [
52
]. The strategies of the country include substantial
investments in renewable energy, particularly wind and solar power, and strong regulatory
frameworks to support energy efficiency and the expansion of renewable energy.
Conversely, Poland’s energy transition has been challenging due to its historical
reliance on coal. However, the country has committed to the European Union’s climate
goals and has adopted the ‘Poland’s Energy Policy until 2040’ strategy [
53
]. This strategy
includes developing renewable energy sources, particularly wind energy, and planning
the development of nuclear energy [
53
]. Meanwhile the country faces significant socio-
economic impacts from their transition away from coal, necessitating policies to support
affected communities [53].
Table 2encapsulates valuable insights into the progress, challenges, and outcomes
associated with the energy transition status of Germany, Poland, and Denmark, offering
lessons for policymakers and stakeholders worldwide. In general, countries with success-
ful energy transitions have established clear, long-term policy frameworks that provide
stability and direction for investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency. Financial
subsidies, tax credits, and funding for research and development are crucial in lowering
the initial cost barriers for renewable energy projects. Furthermore, continuous investment
in new technologies, such as smart grids, energy storage, and advanced renewable energy
technologies, is essential for integrating renewable energy into existing energy systems.
Moreover, raising public awareness and educating citizens about the benefits of re-
newable energy and energy efficiency helps build public support for energy transition
policies [54,55].
Table 2. Overview of progress and challenges of case study countries.
Country Progress and Outcomes Challenges References
Denmark
Denmark has achieved significant reductions in
greenhouse gas emissions and increased the share of
wind energy in its electricity mix.
The transition has resulted in a robust renewable energy
sector, increased energy security, and economic benefits
from exporting renewable energy technologies.
The country faces challenges in further
integrating renewable energy into the
grid and balancing intermittent energy
sources.
[56–58]
Germany
Germany has made substantial progress in increasing
the share of renewable energy in its electricity mix and
reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The country has
significantly boosted its renewable energy capacity,
particularly in wind and solar power, making these
energy sources competitive with traditional fossil fuels.
Currently, renewables powered up 55% of Germany’s
electricity, and the country aims to reach 80% by 2050.
The country faces challenges in managing
the socio-economic impacts of phasing
out coal and ensuring grid stability with
high shares of renewable energy.
[59–61]
Poland
Poland has made initial steps towards increasing
renewable energy capacity and reducing coal
dependency.
Poland’s efforts have been slower compared to other EU
countries, but the strategy sets a foundation for future
progress in achieving its energy transition goals.
The country faces significant
socio-economic challenges from the
transition, including job losses in coal
regions and the need for substantial
investments in new energy infrastructure.
[53,59]
Energies 2024,17, 3512 12 of 17
3.3. The Role of Energy Literacy and Justice
This section explores the definitions and roles of energy literacy and justice within the
context of energy transitions. It examines how these concepts are integrated into policies
and practices, their impact on public acceptance and participation, and their importance in
attaining an inclusive and sustainable energy transition.
3.3.1. Defining Energy Literacy and Justice
Energy Literacy
Although energy education and energy literacy are closely related concepts within the
field of energy studies, they serve distinct roles in shaping how individuals and societies
engage with energy systems. For instance, energy education primarily focuses on the struc-
tured dissemination of knowledge about energy systems to build a foundational conceptual
understanding, whereas energy literacy extends this foundation into practical realms. This
extension enables individuals to make informed decisions and actively participate in energy
systems, enhancing efficiency and equity in energy use.
Table 3further delineates the differences, offering a side-by-side comparison of how
energy education and energy literacy are defined, utilized, and alluded to in the reviewed
literature. This comparison illustrates the transition from conceptual understanding to
practical application where energy education underpins the development of energy literacy.
Understanding these distinctions and interconnections is crucial for developing compre-
hensive energy policies and educational programs that effectively address both current
needs and future challenges in energy management.
Table 3. Energy education vs. energy literacy.
Reference Energy Education Energy Literacy
[36,62]
Energy education focuses on teaching about various facets
of energy systems.
Energy literacy refers to skills, knowledge, attitudes,
and behavior in energy consumption.
[45]Energy education refers to formal teaching about energy
topics.
Energy literacy is the practical understanding and
knowledge individuals have about energy issues.
[63,64]Energy education involves raising awareness that
activates the society towards rational energy use.
Energy literacy integrates sociocultural dynamics and
political decision-making for just energy transitions.
Following the comparison, it is deducible that energy literacy refers to the understand-
ing of energy systems, including how energy is produced, distributed, and consumed, as
well as the societal, technological, and environmental impacts of energy choices. It involves
the ability to make informed decisions regarding energy use, which contributes to more
sustainable energy behaviors and support for energy policies [
35
]. In other words, it encom-
passes knowledge about energy sources, energy efficiency, and the broader implications of
energy consumption on climate change and sustainability.
Energy Justice
Energy justice seeks to address the ethical and equity dimensions of energy production
and consumption. It focuses on ensuring that all individuals and communities have access
to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy [
11
,
12
]. This involves addressing the proce-
dural and distributional inequalities that arise within energy systems, thereby promoting
fairness in both the distribution of energy benefits and the decision-making processes
related to energy policies [
36
]. These policies must ensure that affected communities are
fairly compensated and that their rights are protected.
3.3.2. Integration into Policies and Practices
Ideally, successful energy transition programs integrate energy literacy and justice into
their policies and practices to foster informed public participation and ensure equitable
distribution of benefits.
Energies 2024,17, 3512 13 of 17
Policies promoting energy literacy often include educational initiatives aimed at in-
creasing public understanding of energy systems. For example, the International Youth
Deliberation on Energy Futures (IYDEF) project links climate justice and energy literacy,
emphasizing the importance of educating young people about just energy transitions [
64
].
Energy justice is promoted through policies that provide economic incentives for marginal-
ized communities to participate in renewable energy projects [
36
]. These policies ensure
that vulnerable populations are not left behind in the transition to sustainable energy.
The frameworks for energy justice often include measures to support vulnerable popula-
tions, such as job training programs for workers transitioning from fossil fuel industries to
renewable energy sectors [62].
3.3.3. Impact on Public Acceptance and Participation
Energy literacy significantly impacts public acceptance and participation in energy
transition initiatives, as individuals with higher energy literacy are more likely to support
and engage in energy transition efforts.
Higher levels of energy literacy enable individuals to understand the benefits of re-
newable energy and the importance of reducing reliance on fossil fuels. This understanding
fosters greater acceptance of energy transition policies and initiatives [
45
]. Educated indi-
viduals are more likely to adopt energy-efficient practices and support renewable energy
projects. Participants in the IYDEF project, for example, developed a deeper understanding
of the global context for energy transitions and its relationship to the climate emergency,
influencing their energy-related behaviors and attitudes [64].
However, a predominant issue often encountered is the limited knowledge among
the public, leading to inequality in benefiting from advancements like smart grid devel-
opments [
35
]. Participation in decision-making processes involving the energy transition
serves as a crucial pathway to securing justice, by providing useful local knowledge that
would otherwise be missing without community participation in transition processes [
65
].
These challenges are compounded by varying levels of motivation, ability, and opportunity
among individuals, which can create disparities in access and understanding, potentially
hindering a successful energy transition and the realization of energy justice [35,36,53].
Additionally, potential conflicts may arise as energy literacy may not guarantee suc-
cessful transition or justice, highlighting the need to address knowledge gaps for effective
energy policies [
45
]. Energy literacy involves unpacking values and behaviors about energy,
aiding in just energy transition and climate justice, and potentially facing conflicts with
prevailing capitalist and colonial legacies [64].
Consequently, opportunities to improve energy literacy, and in turn attain energy
justice, lie in increasing digital and energy competencies, engaging individuals in sus-
tainability initiatives, and providing comprehensive support for learning about energy
products and services [
36
,
62
].Incorporating justice and ethics into energy education aligns
with societal values such as fairness and transparency, enhancing user acceptance and
facilitating a more inclusive and equitable energy transition [26,62].
Energy literacy and justice are critical concepts and components of successful energy
transitions considering their capacity to promote an informed and equitable approach to
energy policy. They help ensure that the benefits of energy transitions are widely shared
and that the negative impacts are minimized. Integrating energy literacy and justice into
policies and practices not only fosters public acceptance and participation but also addresses
the inequalities inherent in traditional energy systems.
Therefore, challenges such as knowledge gaps and inequality must be addressed
to ensure a successful and just energy transition, aligning with broader societal goals of
fairness and transparency.
Energies 2024,17, 3512 14 of 17
4. Conclusions
4.1. Key Summary
This review has provided a comprehensive bibliography and analysis of the factors
driving current energy transitions, highlighted successful case studies, and explored the
roles of energy literacy and justice in these processes.
The bibliometric survey revealed a dearth in the energy literature concurrently ad-
dressing energy literacy and justice within the purview of energy transition, particularly
in the early twenty-first century. The United Kingdom emerged as the top country with
the highest research collaboration and citation frequency while the most prolific authors
emanate from Norway and Germany.
The main drivers of the current energy transitions identified include strong policy
frameworks, technological advancements, economic incentives, and international agree-
ments and collaborations. These factors collectively foster an environment conducive to
sustainable energy transitions.
The analysis of Nordic countries, Germany, and Poland revealed diverse approaches
and progress in energy transitions. Denmark’s focus on wind energy, Germany’s En-
ergiewende strategy, and Poland’s efforts to move away from coal each offer valuable
lessons. Notably, the ongoing need to address the socio-economic and infrastructural
challenges associated with such a transition cannot be overemphasized.
Energy literacy is crucial for public acceptance and participation in energy transitions,
whereas energy justice ensures equitable access to energy benefits, with both promoting a
fair and inclusive transition.
4.2. Future Directions
While significant progress has been made, there are still gaps in the literature and
areas that require further research and development. The current literature often lacks
comprehensive analyses of the intersection between energy literacy, justice, and transitions.
More research is needed to understand the long-term impacts of energy transitions on
different societal groups and to develop metrics for evaluating energy justice.
Future research and policies should adopt, integrate, and institutionalize frameworks
that concurrently propagate energy literacy and justice for a more inclusive and sustainable
energy transition. Such frameworks should encompass the following principles:
i.
Encourage the active involvement of local communities in decision-making processes
related to energy projects. This can be achieved through public consultations, work-
shops, and participatory planning sessions.
ii.
Promote community ownership of renewable energy projects to ensure that the eco-
nomic benefits are retained within the community. Policies can support cooperative
models and community-led initiatives.
iii.
Ensure that energy transition policies address mobility and transportation needs,
particularly in rural and underserved areas. This includes developing infrastructure
for electric vehicles and improving public transportation options.
iv.
Guarantee that the processes involved in energy transitions are transparent, inclu-
sive, and just. This involves fair representation in regulatory bodies and equitable
distribution of decision-making power.
v.
Implement measures to ensure that the economic benefits of energy transitions are
shared equitably. This includes job creation, training programs, and support for local
businesses, ensuring affordable access to renewable energy for all.
vi. Protect and enhance the livelihoods of individuals and communities affected by energy
transitions. This can involve providing compensation, retraining opportunities, and
support for alternative livelihoods.
vii.
Engage in place-based justice approaches that incorporate historical awareness and
considerations to ensure successful transition efforts through community acceptance
and participation. Given that the reviewed case studies are primarily associated
with European communities and nations, it is crucial to account for historical con-
Energies 2024,17, 3512 15 of 17
texts to ensure that transition approaches are applicable across various regions with
differing histories of injustice. For instance, addressing fear and mistrust requires
tackling issues related to region- or community-specific historical distrust involving
communities, governments, and the energy industry.
viii.
Leverage social media platforms to promote energy literacy and justice, considering
that social media can be a powerful tool to reach a broad audience, including young
people and vulnerable populations, and to raise awareness about energy issues. By
disseminating information through engaging content such as videos, infographics,
and interactive posts, the public can be educated about energy systems, highlight
instances of energy injustices, and empower individuals to participate in energy-
related discussions. This can increase public engagement and support for energy
transition initiatives.
Finally, it is crucial to continuously monitor and evaluate energy transition initiatives
to ensure they are meeting societal needs and environmental goals. Adaptation strategies
should be developed to respond to emerging challenges and opportunities, ensuring that
energy transition policies remain relevant and effective.
Author Contributions: Conceptualization, O.A. and M.R.; methodology, O.A; data curation, O.A.;
software, O.A.; validation, O.A., formal analysis, O.A.; investigation, O.A. and C.A.S.; writing—
original draft preparation, O.A.; writing—review and editing, O.A. and C.A.S.; visualization, O.A.; su-
pervision, O.A and M.R. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.
Funding: This research received no external funding.
Data Availability Statement: Data are contained within the article.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
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