Risk and socio-technical electricity pathways: A systematic review of 20 years of literature

Addressing complex socio-technical problems has increased the need for innovation across sectors. Along with other factors, the application of new technologies and resources in a socio-technical system, or a lack thereof, results in one form of transition or another. Although the literature on socio-technical systems transitions place much emphasis on how risk perception and analysis impact the decision to accept or reject certain technologies within the broad energy system, it is not always clear what type of risk would result in which transition pathway or what role risk plays in channeling transition through various pathways. Thus, this study reviews the literature on socio-technical transitions to seek insight into how the literature: (1) conceptualize risk, (2) analyze risk in socio-technical transitions, and (3) discuss the impact of risk on socio-technical transition pathways in the electricity sector. The article not only highlights the gap in the literature but suggests the risk governance framework may be useful in bridging the gap.