Realist approaches in energy research to support faster and fairer climate action

Rapid action is needed in the energy sector to respond to the climate emergency. Here we argue for the increased use of 'realist' approaches in sociotechnical energy studies to inform this action. Realist approaches ask not just 'what works?', but also 'for whom, in what circumstances and why?'. They place emphasis on understanding the mechanisms by which outcomes of interventions (such as policies) come about and, crucially, how this depends on contextual factors. This can inform action based on existing learning from a wide range of sectors and disciplines-action that is tailored to be effective in specific contexts, and can respond to the potential for unjust outcomes. In this way they can support justice, interdisciplinary working, and urgency in energy research. We consider limitations and drawbacks of the approach (and responses to these), and present a guide to getting started. The rapid and large-scale changes required to decarbonize energy systems will have varying impacts on different societal groups, making decisions hard. This Perspective calls for greater attention to the use of realist approaches to research, which can help understand what works for whom, under what circumstances and why.

Automated summary

This study advocates for the use of realist approaches in energy research to address the climate emergency. These approaches not only focus on what works, but also on for whom, in what circumstances, and why, which can support justice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and urgency in energy research.