Configurational Innovation Systems: Transition Dynamics and Actor Strategies in the German Heat System

Abstract

The thesis introduces the concept of configurational innovation systems as a subtype of technological innovation systems. Configurational innovation systems evolve around technologies that are highly dependent on the local context for their implementation. The thesis introduces the concept of generic innovation systems as a counterpart of configurational innovation systems, which evolve around technologies that are less dependent on the local context for their implementation. The differentiating between configurational innovation systems and generic innovation systems is relative in terms of scale, yet it has repercussions for the defining pillars and key processes of technological innovation systems. Due to their stronger local context dependence, configurational innovation systems feature more fragmented actor structures, interaction, and institutions. The empirical evidence from the German heat sector, which is presented in the thesis, suggests that due to this more fragmented structure, configurational innovation systems are prone to problematic development patterns. These hinder supportive policy change and hence slow the rate of diffusion of more sustainable innovations, as well as of sustainability transitions more generally.