Connectivity, diversity, and proximity: analysing information networks of professional actors for the diffusion of energy innovations

Energy innovations play a central role in driving the ongoing energy transition towards a renewable-based system. Whereas innovative energy technologies exist, their broad diffusion is still missing. Coordinated professionals are key to offering integrated services to potential adopters, thus, supporting the diffusion of innovative energy technologies. However, limited attention is paid to the role of information networks and coordination among professional actors to support the diffusion. This study analyses information networks in the sector of energy technologies in Switzerland to determine levers to improve information flows and coordination among professional actors to support innovation-diffusion. We identified and characterised relevant actors in the field and surveyed them collecting data on their geographical location, interactions, and events or associations used to exchange information. By constructing socio-spatial information networks, we measured diversity, connectivity and geographical proximity. The findings show that professional networks diffusing information on energy technologies are characterised by (i) asymmetric information flows, (ii) potential of events and associations in disseminating information and bridging different professionals, (iii) diversity of actors tightly connected, and (iv) limited relevance of geographical proximity. Strategies to support further innovation-diffusion should focus on nurturing clusters of professional actors independent from each other, fostering bi-directional information flows, leveraging events and associations to link diverse actors, and utilising proximity dimensions alternative to the geographical one to connect professionals. We also identify a need to further explore the circumstances that bring actors together into a situation of interaction.