Pathways of scholarship for energy justice and the social contract

The energy sector is increasingly out of date and in need of a new direction. There continues to be a myriad of issues emanating from the sector, most notably with climate change, environmental impacts and economic governance. Climate change continues at pace and with the United Nations having already declared there to be a climate emergency. Yet the response of energy sector stakeholders with the power to make the necessary changes in society remains slow. Too much investment continues in the old traditional energy sources. This research accepts these positions and that therefore the relationship between the stakeholders of the energy sector is imbalanced. In order to change this relationship so that it is fair, equitable and inclusive it is necessary to place (energy) justice at the core of a new social contract between the stakeholders of the energy sector (which includes policymakers, private and public energy companies, and citizens). This research advances 10 key pathways for scholarship on energy justice and the social contract. These topics need to be addressed from local to national and international levels. In resolving these research problems society can address the fundamental imbalances that exist between energy stakeholders and ensure a just and brave new world established through this new energy-just social contract.

Automated summary

The energy sector is in need of a new direction due to issues related to climate change, environmental impacts, and economic governance. The response from stakeholders in the energy sector has been slow, with too much investment still going into traditional energy sources. This research proposes placing energy justice at the core of a new social contract between stakeholders to address imbalances and establish a just and brave new world.