The global energy transition is an urgent challenge driven by the need to combat climate change and meet the growing energy demands of an expanding population. As existing energy systems rely heavily on fossil fuels, a rapid shift toward cleaner, more sustainable alternatives is
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The global energy transition is an urgent challenge driven by the need to combat climate change and meet the growing energy demands of an expanding population. As existing energy systems rely heavily on fossil fuels, a rapid shift toward cleaner, more sustainable alternatives is essential. Energy justice ensures that the benefits and burdens of this transition are distributed equitably. However, in the Global South, historical exploitation, economic constraints, and systemic inequalities worsen vulnerability to climate change and hinder progress toward sustainable energy solutions. Much of the current energy justice literature is Western-centric, often overlooking the Global South and focusing on a narrow definition of the concept. Furthermore, while existing studies often concentrate on qualitative analysis, quantitative measures of energy justice are underdeveloped. A robust methodology to quantify inclusive energy justice is essential, as the lack of such an index can hinder effective policy-making for equitable transitions. This thesis employs a mixed-methods approach, combining exploratory research with empirical data from a case study in South Africa, to develop new theoretical insights and a methodology for creating an energy justice index that integrates restorative justice into existing frameworks.
The research begins with a comprehensive review of existing knowledge, including theoretical frameworks and key principles to establish a foundation for further exploration of energy justice. This review focuses on the current state of energy justice, and critically examines the traditional three-tenet framework of distributional, procedural and recognition justice, as well as key decision-making principles. Recent critiques reveal that these frameworks are often too narrow, generalised, human- centred, and Western-centric. In response, this research integrates restorative justice as a key component, focusing on addressing past harms and preventing future damage to individuals, communities, and the environment as a whole. An ethical analysis using both Western and non-Western perspectives has been conducted to develop a more inclusive and diverse framework for energy justice. This approach offers a more holistic view of global ethical values in energy justice by combining the focus on individual rights from Western liberalism with the communitarian and relational values from non-Western philosophies.
In the second research phase, the study examined institutional frameworks and governance structures essential for implementing and scaling up sustainable energy in the Global South. With the ethical dimensions of energy justice thoroughly explored from the first research phase, this part transitions to a practical examination of how these frameworks and structures can support an equitable energy transition. Using the Original Institutional Economics (OIE) approach, this research highlights that achieving a just energy transition requires more than just technological innovation; it requires transformative shifts in institutional structures and cultural norms. The OIE framework provides valuable insights into how values embedded within social, political, economic, and cultural contexts impact the effectiveness of energy transition strategies. Additionally, the study integrates the Williamson framework, incorporating universal human rights law as a key layer. Recognised by international and national courts, this legal foundation strengthens the understanding of how governance structures in the Global South can support justice principles within energy governance.
Building on the ethical and institutional insights, the final research phase develops an inclusive Energy Justice Index that integrates restorative justice principles. This index serves as a comprehensive tool for assessing energy justice across the Global South, evaluating metrics related to past injustices, future compensation, and fairness across generations. Developing an Energy Justice Index is important because it quantifies and operationalises complex justice principles, allowing stakeholders to systematically evaluate, track progress, and address disparities in energy access and policies. It specifically aims to provide a robust framework for guiding energy transition projects by addressing historical disparities and supporting sustainable development. The index is applied in a case study of South Africa, demonstrating its real-world functionality. While the case study shows some progress, it also reveals critical gaps in restorative justice, community engagement, and transparency. Improving these areas is essential for achieving more equitable and effective energy justice outcomes in South Africa. This research is limited by its focus on a single case study in South Africa, which may not fully represent other Global South contexts. Future studies should apply the Energy Justice Index in diverse countries to test its applicability and refine its metrics. Additionally, exploring the impact of local socio- economic factors and human behaviour on energy justice could provide deeper insights and improve the index's effectiveness.
