Tipping points in the energy transition

The influence of social interactions on individual decisions in the fields of photovoltaics and electro-mobility.

The energy transition is a major challenge for our society. With the adoption of the energy strategy at the level of the Swiss confederation and of the Cantonal Energy Concept (CoCEn) at the level of the canton of Vaud, ambitious objectives have been set in terms of reducing energy consumption and increasing renewable energy production. For achieving these goals, it will take a deeper societal transition which goes beyond the use of available technologies and the encouragement of a more efficient use of energy.

In this context, it is important to understand how and to what extent individual decisions to invest in renewable energies are influenced by the interaction with professional and non-professional actors (neighbors, political groups, municipal authorities, etc.). In the project financed by the Energy directorate of the canton of Vaud we will be analyzing the following questions:

• What are the factors which facilitate or prevent individual actors from proactively engaging in the context of energy transitions (networking, knowledge, skills, finances)?
• What are the thresholds (or tipping points) at the community level beyond certain factors which can encourage individuals to actively participate in the energy transition?
• How can we support actors in their decision-making processes in order to strengthen the commitment of individual actors to the objectives set in the energy strategy?
• What are models of good practice in terms of networking for the energy transition at the level of the canton of Vaud, and beyond?

Methodologically, the study is based on two surveys with individuals and professional firms in two regions of the canton of Vaud (Jura-Nord vaudois and Nyon). This survey aims to gain a better understanding of the decision-making process in the fields of photovoltaics and electro-mobility, in particular through an in-depth analysis of the societal networks in which individuals are integrated. The analysis will strengthen the knowledge base of cantonal, regional and communal authorities, support their capacity for action in terms of communication and support individual actors (owners, tenants, institutional investors) to make informed decisions.