Nicht ohne (m)einen Verein: Kommunale Multiakteurspartnerschaften für die Energiewende

In order to manage the energy transition, local politics and administrations are increasingly dependent on the cooperation with economic and civil society actors. In order to achieve local climate goals, associations (German: Vereine) as local multisector partnerships (MSPs) have been founded in some German districts. However, their contribution to cooperative governance at local level remains underexplored. Drawing upon extensive local evidence, this cross-case study shows the potential of MSPs to increase the collective capacity for action by strengthening (informal) networks, building trust, possibilities for low-threshold conflict resolution and attracting additional resources. The classic form of association offers a number of advantages. Smaller municipalities in particular can benefit from co-operation in associations. With reference to national funding programmes in France, this study recommends a more targeted promotion of cooperation for the local energy transition.