Infrastructures in transition role and response of infrastructures in societal transitions

Abstract

This paper draws attention to the importance of the role of infrastructures in transitions and tries to explore the added value infrasystems and transition management research can have for each other. A framework is presented which positions infrastructures within the context of societal transitions; offering a new perspective on infrasystems change. The different responses of and change modes for three different types of infrasystems (energy, water and mobility) over the course of transitions will be presented. The transition management approach is used to investigate the possibilities for steering radical change of the different infrasystem types. Consequently, we will formulate some tentative lessons and insights for infrasystem developers/designers, regulators and users on how to deal with, facilitate or induce radical change.