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Article Published in the Anthology “Wealth and the Ecological Transformation”

On the Commons and Communal Practices in the Energy Transition and Their Potential

Foto: Alena Schulte

The article “Beyond Profits: An Exploration of Energy Commoning Practices in Local Energy Communities” in the anthology examines how local energy communities, as sites of energy commoning, can contribute to a socially just and democratic energy transition. The focus is on the question of which communal practices emerge along the lines of production, distribution, and use of renewable energy, and how these extend beyond purely economic objectives. The findings show that energy commoning not only enables new forms of energy supply but can also strengthen participation, collective agency, and social sustainability. In this way, the article opens up perspectives on an energy transition that is more resilient, more inclusive, and more strongly oriented toward the common good.

Müller, Hannah Charlotte (2026): “Beyond Profits: An Exploration of Energy Commoning Practices in Local Energy Communities.” In: Terstriep, Judith; Gärtner, Stefan (eds.), pp. 297–32 Wealth and the Ecological Transformation: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Reciprocal Dynamics. transcript Verlag.

Foto: Alena Schulte

Thinking About Prosperity and Ecological Transformation Together

The interdisciplinary anthology *Wealth and the Ecological Transformation* links wealth distribution, infrastructure, and the socioeconomic dimensions of ecological transformation. The volume emerged from a summer school held in September 2024 in Gelsenkirchen, where researchers and activists from politics and civil society came together to discuss the relationship between wealth and climate protection. For researchers, local politicians, planners, and those interested, the book offers concrete insights into how transformation can be steered politically, economically, and spatially, with a focus on equity and sustainability.

Further Information

Click here for the anthology, which is available online for free