Community -oriented Sustainable Energy Enterprises
Abstract
Transitioning to a more sustainable energy paradigm requires a myriad of mechanisms and approaches. Based on current technology and resources, no one solution exists to replace fossil-fuels. Rooted in this transition is the idea of decentralizing energy production. This paper examines why our current energy paradigm is vulnerable and provides an in-depth analysis of how communities in developed regions can become more sustainable and resilient. The approach discussed utilizes the concept of a community-oriented sustainable energy enterprise. This enterprise seeks to implement renewable energy production within communities while maximizing social welfare and increasing local resilience. A proof-of-concept case study is presented to demonstrate how these implementations can be desirable from an environmental, social, and economic perspective.