Path Dependencies in the Energy System

The transformation of the energy system encounters in practice many barriers, especially in the heating sector. The main aim of this work is to uncover why it is particularly difficult to transform this sector. For this purpose, this paper analyzes the lock-in mechanisms that set path dependencies in the German heating sector. A literature review on lock-in mechanisms that occur on the local level was conducted. Five different dimensions with a total number of six lock-in mechanisms were considered. Of these, twelve manifestations were found in eleven documents that examine barriers and inertia in the local heating sector. The results indicate that the current legal framework and local organizational structure further manifest the use of natural gas and impede the use of renewable energies in heating. This work offers an insight into the specifics of lock-in mechanisms. It may be helpful for decision makers in local organizations such as public utilities and provides a basis for further research on path-dependencies in the German heating sector.