Kivimaa, Boon, Hyysalo & Klerx (2019) Towards a typology of intermediaries in sustainability transitions

We aim to bring more clarity to the topic of intermediaries in transitions by providing a definition of transition intermediaries and a typology of five intermediary types that is sensitive to the emergence, neutrality and goals of intermediary actors as well as their context and level of action. We argue that systemic and niche intermediaries are the most crucial forms of intermediary actors in transitions, but they need to be complemented by a full ecology of intermediaries.

Kivimaa et al. (2019) Passing the baton: How intermediaries advance sustainability transitions in different phases

We integrate existing conceptual models on transition dynamics and phases and a typology of transition intermediaries to examine how intermediaries advance transitions in different phases. We illustrate our conceptual insights through examples from car clubs, heat pumps and low-energy housing. We conclude that intermediation is paramount from predevelopment to stabilisation of a transition.

Köhler et al. (2019) An agenda for sustainability transitions research: State of the art and future directions

This article provides an extensive review and an updated research agenda for sustainability transitions, classified into nine main themes. The review shows that the scope of this field of research has broadened and connections to established disciplines have grown stronger. At the same time, we see that the grand challenges related to sustainability remain unsolved, calling for continued efforts and an acceleration of ongoing transitions.

Hyysalo, Pollock & Williams (2019) Method matters in the social study of technology

This paper outlines the basic principles of ‘biographies of artifacts and practices’ (BOAP) and its significant variations, and discusses its contribution to STS understandings of innovation, especially user roles in innovation. We finish by arguing that if STS is to continue to provide insight around innovation this will require a reconceptualisation of research design, to move from simple ‘snap shot’ studies to the linking together of a string of studies.

Hyysalo et al. (2019) Developing Policy Pathways: Redesigning Transition Arenas for Mid-Range Planning

We redesigned the TA process in the context of energy system change in Finland by 2030, focusing on interim goals, mid-range change pathways and developing a new notation system that allows participants to directly create the pathways. The resulting renewed TA process results in more specific and detailed mid-range pathways that provide more concreteness to how to implement long-term transition goals.

Silvast et al. (2018) Who ‘Uses’ Smart Grids? The Evolving Nature of User Representations in Layered Infrastructures

Qualitative accounts given by European technology developers and experts reveal how they understand the final use and social impacts of these technologies. The article analyzes these accounts and compares the UK’s smart meter rollout with experiences from other European countries, especially Finland, to provide insights into the later adoption stages of smart energy and how its impacts have evolved.