Typology of centralised and decentralised visions for electricity infrastructure

Scientific and public controversies about the design of future electricity systems can be observed, including differences around centralised and decentralised approaches. Taking the German case as an example, we develop a typology of (de)centralisation that distinguishes between (1) infrastructure location (connectivity and proximity), and (2) infrastructure operation (flexibility and controllability). This typology is applied to two competing visions for the future of electricity infrastructure. A differentiated view of the various dimensions can contribute to the current debate, clarify visions for development paths, and inform infrastructure governance.

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