the same trail
These grand gestures often end up in strains. The challenge comes when they are to be realized. It is
difficult to see how the results can be implemented. Too often, the grand gestures remain as plans on
glossy paper.
Egedal is an ambitious Danish municipality in energy. They have in recent years worked hard to achieve
energy savings. The peculiarity of this municipality's work is that it has retained a responsive approach to
realizing the ambitions. This is done in recognition of the fact that it is difficult to effect change.
The responsive approach stands in contrast to the technically innovative lighthouse projects. In Egedal, it is
about getting the more low-tech, energy-efficient solutions integrated. Moreover, how the municipality can
strategically pave the way for saving energy in their daily tasks.
As researchers, we are concerned with how municipalities work to pave the way for realizing sustainable
transition. Based on our theories and observations, we believe that responsive work is an important part of
what it takes. It is not just visionary plans. We must also work to pave the way for the desired development
in the circumstances we find ourselves in. With the tools that we have available right now, whilst learning
as we go.
The inspiration booklet provides an analysis of Egedal Municipality's strategic efforts to achieve energy
savings in their public properties. We have chosen to focus on this municipality because we believe that
other municipalities in Europe can learn from the way it works.
plans have been complemented by the development of innovative practices. Nevertheless, what would an
innovative practice actually mean? And why is it interesting to look into?
What does it mean to be innovative?
Innovation and energy saving initially harks towards the development of new energy efficient technologies.
That is often the thought process. However, innovation does not have to be all about new technology. In
fact, there are already many technical solutions available that can help to reduce energy consumption in
buildings. They are just not always used to any significant degree. Therefore, innovation is also necessary in
terms of making the well-known energy-efficient solutions widespread.
The lack of dissemination is rarely because of a lack of will. However, municipalities often have many tasks
they wish to address within a tight financial framework. Energy savings are not always at the top of the
municipal priority list. Therefore, it requires that 'someone' does 'something'. That politicians and
administration together manages to create a foundation and framework for integrating energy-efficient
solutions in daily practice.
It is necessary to challenge the way in which daily operations are organized. To appoint driving force who
can stick with energy-efficient solutions in a long, tough process. To prepare the ground for a more