Regional Energy 2050: A sustainability-oriented strategic backcasting methodology for local utilities

Preface

Acknowledgement

Overview

Table of contents

Abstract

Summary

1 Introduction and definitions

1.1 Problem statement and motivation

1.2 Derivation of research questions

1.3 Initial assumptions and definitions

1.4 Sustainability Sustainability definition and adaptation for the energy sector

1.5 Summary and conclusion for chapter one

2 Sustainability and business strategy

2.1 Perspectives on corporate economic and environmental performance

2.2 Definition of a strategic development corridor for corporations

2.3 Strategic necessity of corporate sustainability-orientation

2.4 Summary and conclusion for chapter two

3 Future studies and business strategy

3.1 Introduction to future studies

3.2 History and state of the art of backcasting

3.3 Strategic backcasting and other strategy schools

3.4 Arguments for a novel backcasting methodology for local utilities

3.5 Summary and conclusion for chapter three

4 A novel strategic backcasting methodology for local utilities

4.1 Definition of criteria and targets for a sustainable future energy system

4.2 Description of a regional target scenario

4.3 Analysis of status quo

4.4 Derivation of external crossroads and internal milestones

4.5 Identification of a strategic development pathway

4.6 Summary and conclusion for the methodological section

5 Case study study sample application of strategic backcasting

5.1 Step 1: Definition of criteria and targets for the future energy system

5.2 Step 2: Description of a regional target scenario

5.3 Step 3: Description of the status quo

5.4 Step 4: External crossroads and internal milestones

5.5 Step 5: Identification of a strategic development pathway

5.6 Summary and conclusion for the case study

6 Critical assessment and conclusions

6.1 Lessons learned from the case study

6.2 Critical reflection of the strategic backcasting methodology

6.3 Further research needs

6.4 Summary and conclusion for chapter six

List of figures

List of tables

Reference list