Digital platforms in Zero Emission Vehicle transition: A stakeholder engagement and policy strategy for the UK's net-zero future

Abstract

The digitalization of net zero strategies is integral to global commitments to achieve mid-century carbon neutrality, as set by the 2015 Paris Agreement. The UK’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has outlined a digital action plan to advance this goal. This plan aims to optimize energy use, integrate low-carbon technologies (such as solar panels, heat pumps, and electric vehicles), and promote flexible energy consumption through data-driven insights, benefiting consumers and supporting the net zero target. Central to this strategy is the concept of a “Just Transition,” which addresses the fiscal and social impacts of shifting to a low-carbon economy, ensuring disadvantaged communities and carbon-intensive industry workers are not left behind. This research emphasizes understanding the cost distribution of net zero pathways, fostering consensus among policymakers, and achieving equitable progress.

However, the role of digital platforms in supporting net zero initiatives, particularly in promoting zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs), remains underexplored. This study addresses this research gap by analyzing how digital platforms influence public opinion, policy formulation, and stakeholder coordination while identifying the potential of digital tools in mobilizing support and organizing efforts. The research employs methodologies such as Gephi network analysis, sentiment analysis, and content strategy assessment to quantify the impact of digital engagement. Key findings reveal that YouTube serves as the primary medium for narrative-driven ZEV promotion, while Platform X facilitates real-time policy discussions. Facebook (ERR: 6.2) and YouTube (ERR: 29.2) exhibit the highest engagement rates, whereas Instagram (ERR: 1.0) and X (ERR: 29.2) demonstrate varied effectiveness. Moreover, videos with text (n = 136) emerge as the most engaging content format, followed by images with text (n = 122), influencing platform-specific engagement strategies.

Stakeholder analysis reveals that government bodies, industry leaders, and tech providers act as central nodes in driving policy discourse on digital platforms. High modularity in engagement patterns indicates the formation of tightly connected stakeholder communities that shape public opinion and policymaking. Despite strong engagement, challenges such as data privacy, technological reliability, and equitable access persist. Addressing these barriers within the Just Transition framework is vital for inclusive participation in net zero policies. Aligned with the Fair and Just Transition, this study presents policy recommendations, including enhancing digital engagement with underrepresented groups, upskilling workers, promoting circular economy practices, integrating climate risks into strategies, and ensuring transparent progress measurement. These measures are critical for improving energy literacy, fostering public understanding, and advancing the UK’s net zero ambitions.