The Energy Transition in the Federal Republic of Germany (1974-2017) – Reform, Revolution, or Restoration? A Macro Perspective on a Permanent Conflict

Abstract

The paper understands the transformation of the German energy system between 1974-2017 as a conflict between two grand coalitions: The established coalition that defends the status quo and challengers who are advocating for the transition of the system. The timespan of the analysis will be divided in three phases. In the first phases of discursive confrontation, a grassroots coalition is challenging the state and energy corporations. However, it was unable to push through quasi revolutionary demands like a democratization of the energy system. Facilliated by a wide-ranging restructuring of both coalitions during phase 2, since the late 80s some of the pioneers' ideas have come true. Finally, in phase 3 that is begins in 2011, the established coalition regained the control over the energy system that partly had been lost.