Where we stand on energy justice: Typologies from fuzzy ideal type analysis and interpretations from the Global South

Abstract

Defining and operationalizing energy justice is essential for designing equitable and sustainable energy policies—especially in the Global South, where challenges such as limited energy access, institutional constraints, and climate vulnerability are acute. This study investigates how energy justice is represented in the policies of 14 Global South countries and how national policy actors perceive these dimensions. Using a three-component theoretical framework and fuzzy ideal type analysis, the research identifies six ideological typologies of energy justice: the balanced state, the procedural and distributive justice-oriented state, the distributive and restorative justice-oriented state, the procedural justice monotype state, the restorative justice monotype state, and the vulnerable state. This mid-range comparative study bridges a critical empirical gap by combining quantitative indicators with qualitative insights from senior energy ministry officials, enhancing the validity and contextual depth of the typologies. The findings contribute foundational knowledge for developing justice-oriented energy strategies, enabling intra-Global South comparison, and informing policy transitions that align with ethical, practical, and context-specific demands of energy governance.