Dealing with complexity in energy transitions: Exploring feedback mechanisms that hinder and help transition governance

This thesis examines the role of feedback effects in energy transitions, highlighting their potential to either support or hinder progress. It encourages policymakers and researchers to acknowledge and address these complex, often unintended consequences. By understanding feedback effects, stakeholders can better anticipate systemic outcomes, design more adaptive policies, and navigate the dynamic interdependencies within energy systems. The research synthesizes insights from system dynamics modeling, transition studies, and engineering to offer a holistic perspective across various energy technologies (electricity and heat), governance levels (local to global), and timeframes. Ultimately, this work aims to support more informed decision-making by deepening the understanding of how feedback mechanisms shape current and future energy pathways.