Question

Compare and contrast the approaches between electricity in past and present

Answer 1

Highlights

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We identify five mechanisms which play a role in national low-carbon electricity transitions.

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Use of nuclear, wind and solar power in Germany and Japan diverged in the 1990s.

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Wind power diffused to Germany from Denmark but different geography stalled it in Japan.

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Demand growth and energy insecurity prompted nuclear power expansion in Japan.

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Competition with domestic coal and wind led to the demise of nuclear power in Germany.