Why Subnational Actors Matter: The Role of Länder and Municipalities in the German Energy Transition

Abstract

This chapter analyzes the role of German regional states (Länder) and municipalities in the country’s energy transition process. The authors argue that Länder and municipalities possess far-reaching energy policy options, especially with regard to the energy supply for administrative buildings, spatial planning procedures, as well as electricity and heat generation by local and regional energy companies. Based on empirical case studies, the authors find that the success of Länder and municipal energy transition efforts depends on a variety of problem-related, political, economic, cognitive, and actor-related factors. In conclusion, the authors argue that subnational energy politics and policies will continue to be important for the planned shift to a renewable-based German energy system in the coming decades.