Tenth International Conference on The Constructed Environment

Abstract

Energy network evolution is linked to social, economic, and technological transition. Undoubtedly, smart technologies are playing a relevant role, but the comprehension of their emergent properties is difficult. This is because emergent properties occur only when a system moves from one organisation form to another, requiring the codification of a new Technology Support Net (TSN). When a new TSN is defined it is possible to operate in an alternative and more efficient way. More importantly, it is possible to do new things. This is the case of Distributed Renewable and Interactive Energy Systems (DRIs). The old fossil energy infrastructure and the new one can live together only on short time because they require completely different socio-technical organisation. As a consequence, they cannot coexist over the long terms. The objective of the paper is to disseminate a ground-breaking theoretical and operative apparatus, which has been elaborated in order to better understand the emergent properties of DRIs. Findings make clear the potential socio-technical implications in the realm of future built environment transformations.