Explaining Divergent Energy Paths: Electricity Policy in Argentina and Uruguay ; Erläuterung der abweichenden Energiepfade: Energiepolitik in Argentinien und Uruguay

Abstract

South America is a region that has received little attention in the literature dealing with renewable energy policy politics. Yet, it is a region in dramatic transition and this makes it an important case for examination. In this dissertation, Argentina and Uruguay, two countries that are experiencing rapid socioeconomic and electricity transition, are compared in relation to their energy policies related to electricity supply. The aim of this study is to compare the similarities and differences of energy policies in the two countries¬––from two selected electricity systems––explaining why and how certain policy ideas, understandings or beliefs (but not others) were adopted in their energy policies. This comparative case study of the historical policy process of energy policy seeks to understand why the countries showed different commitments to different forms of energy and how the development of renewable energy in particular can be explained in each case, all the while trying to identify supportive and hindering factors. Additionally, attention is given to the evolution of the German and French nuclear and/or renewable energy policies as they provide good examples in relation to their different energy choices. While Germany––together with Spain, Denmark, and California––is considered one of the worldwide pioneers in the deployment of wind and renewable energy, France––together with Canada, Japan, Sweden, and US––is deemed to be a reference in nuclear energy. This dissertation examines what can be learned from these two countries and whether there are elements that might be interesting to apply in Argentina and Uruguay for a better understanding of the policy process in these two countries. Both Argentina and Uruguay have faced energy supply shortages since the mid 2000s. Yet, while Argentina decided to focus more on increasing nuclear power and start developing some renewable energy, Uruguay rejected nuclear power and decided to begin significant development of renewable energy. The paradox is that having one ...