Renewable Energy Transition Approach to Sustainable Development: Connecting Triple Bottom Line, Socio-Technical Transition, and Stakeholder Perspectives
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.66635/m6c68j31Keywords:
Renewable Energy Transition (RET), Sustainable Development (SD), Inclusive Growth, Triple Bottom Line, Socio-Technical Transition, Stakeholder TheoryAbstract
Global interest in a Renewable Energy Transition (RET) to achieve sustainable and equitable growth has increased amid the escalating climate catastrophe, rising greenhouse gas emissions, energy insecurity, and socioeconomic disparities. Adoption of renewable energy and sustainability outcomes has been studied independently in the past. However, little research has developed an integrated conceptual framework that explains how RETs contribute concurrently to environmental, social, and economic sustainability. To close this gap, this study proposes a multi-layered conceptual framework grounded in stakeholder theory, socio-technical transition theory, and the triple bottom line. According to the framework, RET is an inclusive change that involves stakeholder engagement, institutional support, technical innovation, and green economic transformation. It is suggested that RET will impact social sustainability through improved energy access, public health, social inclusion, and community resilience; economic sustainability through employment creation, energy security, industrial competitiveness, and innovation; and environmental sustainability through carbon reduction, pollution mitigation, climate resilience, and ecosystem protection. The concept also acknowledges institutional support and technical innovation as important mediating mechanisms, with public awareness, government efficacy, and financial development serving as moderating elements. By integrating multiple sustainability perspectives into an interconnected model, the study advances theory and offers management and policy recommendations for fostering inclusive, sustainable nation-building.
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