Energy Systems and Technologies for the Coming Century ...

diffusion and utilization of technology” (Carlsson & Stànkiewicz, 1991; p.94)This definition acknowledges that a technological innovation system transcendsterritorial boundaries, and, that a technology cuts across various industrial sectors. Theapproach has been demonstrated in a number of empirical studies (Bergek et al., 2008;Jacobsson, 2008; Jacobsson et al., 2004; Negro et al., 2008; Borup et al, 2009) and isparticularly useful for the purposes of this project as it captures the dynamics takingplace within technological innovation systems (TIS). To address these dynamics, keyactivities in the innovation system can be identified and classified along definedfunctions of innovation systems. As described by Hekkert et al., the function ofinnovation systems “focuses on the most important processes that need to take place inthe innovation systems to lead successfully to technology development and diffusion”(2007). The seven functions include: entrepreneurial activities, knowledge development(learning processes), knowledge diffusion through networks, guidance of the search,market formation, resource mobilisation, and creation of legitimacy/counteract resistanceto change.Thus, the purpose of the paper is to create insight into how the process of momentumbuilding takes place in the TIS by analysing the dynamic interplay between the system’sactors, institutions and networks and its functional patterns. Likewise, the paper analysesthe role of policy targets and mechanisms within and across national boundaries.3. Methodology and dataA comparative case study approach is applied, comprising two different technologies intwo countries, both of which are assumed to play a key role for the worldwide transitionto a low carbon energy system: offshore wind technology in Denmark and solarphotovoltaic technology in Norway. The selection of these cases is motivated not only bythe importance in the national energy systems of these technologies, but also because ofmarket opportunities for these energy technologies in a global scope.The analysis of both cases is structured accordingly in a basic analysis of thetechnological innovation systems, and a policy outlook.The basic analysis includes following:• Review of innovation characteristics,• Market aspects,• Actors and networks which are involved in relevant innovation processes,• Institutional setting (R&D programs, regulations, expectations, norms and values).The case study on offshore wind technology was made as a desk research developed invarious projects. Firstly, an innovation system analysis of the Danish wind energy sectorwas made as part of the assignment for the Danish Climate Commission on the role ofRD&D in accelerating energy technologies (Jørgensen & Münster, 2010). Secondly,back ground work was produced for the Megavind RD&D offshore wind energystrategy, which took place during May – November 2010.The data used for the basic analysis of the case study on solar photovoltaics wasdeveloped in several projects over the last years (Klitkou, 2010; Klitkou & Godø, 2010;Klitkou et al., 2008). This includes an analysis of the technology (patents, bibliometricdata), actors and networks of actors, R&D institutions, and market developments.Interviews with R&D programme managers of the RCN and researchers from R&Dorganisations and industry experts provided important insights.Risø International Energy Conference 2011 Proceedings Page 78