Rural, regional, and remote energy transformations: an energy quadrilemma lens

This timely book analyses energy transformations and their regulation in rural, regional and remote geographies. Leading experts apply the concept of the energy quadrilemma, namely security, equity, sustainability, and justice, to the governance of developing technologies and energy transitions.

Providing multidisciplinary insights and analysis of decarbonisation within complex landscapes, the contributing authors discuss case studies in non-urban geographies across Asia, Australia, Europe, North America, South America, and the Arctic. The book argues that, although rural and remote areas will host significant decarbonisation activities and infrastructure, regulation and policy often overlooks their unique opportunities and challenges for energy transformations. Chapters propose critical recommendations for policy and regulatory reform, acknowledging the distinct characteristics of these frontier areas and advocating for their increased participation. The book explores new research agendas informed by socio-legal and policy perspectives to ensure stakeholders in these regions receive sustained and enduring benefits.

Combining contributions from an impressive range of leading geographically diverse scholars, this book is an essential resource for researchers and students of environmental law, energy policy, development studies and sustainable development. Practitioners of energy law and energy transitions will likewise benefit from its pragmatic policy recommendations.