Vol. 46 No. 184 (2016): Energy struggles: Interests, Relations of Forces and Perspectives

The current energy system relying on fossil energy sources such as oil, coal and gas is in crisis. It is under pressure not only due to the exhaustion of fossil resources but also due to the rise of renewable energies. Their use is currently experiencing a global upsurge. The transition from a fossilist system to one based on renewable energy is, however, conflictual and far from definite. For instance, the conflict over the spatial configuration of renewable energy supply ultimately revolves around the question whether a conglomerate of large corporation can continue to assert control over a crucial societal infrastructure or whether this infrastructure can be withdrawn from capitalist economic interests and democratised. This is just one of many conflicts we can identify in the crisis of the fossilist energy system. PROKLA 184 aims at exploring these dynamics more in depth. Which trajectories are currently emerging in energy politics? Which constellations of forces undergird these trajectories both domestically and internationally? Which contradictions and conflicts are these trajectories refracted by? What are the chances of success of initiatives and social movements, which fight for the transformation of modes of living and a democratisation of energy supply on the basis of renewable energy?