Policy Shifts toward an Energy System Transition: The Dynamics of Advocacy Coalitions and New York State’s Renewable Portfolio Standard

Abstract

Using the New York State Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) policy process as a case study, this paper combines two existing policy theories, Transition Management and the Advocacy Coalition Framework, to explain how actors work together in coalitions and influence state-level policy makers in the passage of policies that target renewable energy technology. It is a qualitative assessment that explores the role of trust, belief systems, leadership and the exercise of power in determining the efficacy of coalitions when linking with policymakers. It also considers how the implementation of the RPS could fit into an overall energy system transition for New York State.