Physical and institutional challenges of low-carbon infrastructure transitions : constraints and potential solutions

摘要: There is growing recognition that the United Kingdom’s ageing infrastructure systems are unable to deliver radical reductions in greenhouse gas emissions necessary avoid dangerous climate change. As such, there an imperative transform our towards alternatives services reliably but within environmental limits. significant challenges achieving this transformation most current analysis focusses on technical and economic of transition. This thesis examines two under-studied low-carbon transition: one principally physical; constraints posed by disruption supply critical materials embedded energy technologies; institutional; alternative modes operation from policy regulation water infrastructure. It aims not only characterise these also identify responses alleviate constraints. The differ greatly character contrasting methods were used analyse nature scale each constraint. Material criticality examined using a quantitative, indicator-based method developed dynamically assess risk material electricity generation. Policy regulatory analysed theory building case study mechanisms which development constrained regulation. Despite differing constraints, some striking similarities potential constraints. The results both analyses emphasize importance diversity future system, need for more targeted approach stress integrated action across areas. dual focus understanding responding forced balance between dealing with complexity enabling action. highlighted adaptive policy, takes face uncertainty able modify its course as system develops.