The Consumption of Photovoltaic Energy Based on the Theory of Practice and Sociotechnical Transitions

Authors

Rafael Lopes Carvalhais, Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Minas GeraisFollow
Marcelo de Rezende Pinto Prof., Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Minas GeraisFollow

Abstract

This paper seeks to advance the discussions involving the articulation between the theory of Sociotechnical Transitions and Practice Theory. The text tries to develop this articulation considering that it is possible to find in the literature notes that the Theory of Sociotechnical Transitions is a suitable partner to be articulated with the Theory of Practice. The proposition was tested in empirical research in which we sought to understand how consumption practices change from adopting photovoltaic energy consumption. The research is categorized as qualitative research. The study offers an interpretation of the object from the theoretical lens provided by Social Practice Theory and Sociotechnical Transitions, also known as Multilevel Perspective or “MLP.” In total, 24 interviews were executed, 7 with integrators, 7 with quasi-prosumers, and 10 with prosumers. To analyze the data, content analysis was used. The study's findings demonstrate that sociotechnical systems are reconfigured from the introduction of a new practice to accommodate this newly incorporated practice. Additionally, some of the pre-existing methods are modified during this accommodation process. It is also possible to conclude that the sociotechnical dimensions can be helpful in studies of phenomena that involve the transition of habits, routines, behavior patterns, and practices, as they provide a model of assumptions for sociotechnical change.

Keywords

consumption, theory of practice, sociotechnical transitions, multilevel perspective, photovoltaic energy

Author Bio(s)

Rafael Lopes Carvalhais earned a Master in Management at Postgraduate Program in Management at Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Please direct correspondence to rafaellocar@yahoo.com.br.

Marcelo de Rezende Pinto earned a Ph.D. in Management at Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil and is Professor at the Postgraduate Program in Management at Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Please direct correspondence to marcrez@hotmail.com.

Publication Date

12-15-2022

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 4.0 International License.

DOI

10.46743/2160-3715/2022.5516

Recommended APA Citation

Carvalhais, R. L., & Pinto, M. d. (2022). The Consumption of Photovoltaic Energy Based on the Theory of Practice and Sociotechnical Transitions. The Qualitative Report, 27(12), 2801-2815. https://doi.org/10.46743/2160-3715/2022.5516