Voices of transition: understanding sustainability transition leadership : insights from a senior leadership perspective within the Energy Sector

Sammanfattning

The energy sector is the largest contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for over 75% of emissions in the EU and 68% globally. While technological advancements and the availability of renewable resources offer significant potential for emissions reductions, decarbonizing the energy sector remains a complex challenge due to the scale and duration of the transition required. Addressing this complexity requires not only technological solutions but also effective leadership capable of navigating multi-dimensional sustainability challenges. This study introduces and applies the conceptual framework of Sustainability Transition Leadership (STL), which integrates the concept of sustainability leadership with concepts from transition studies. STL adopts a multi-scalar perspective that encompasses the individual, organizational, and societal levels to analyze how leadership is enacted across these interconnected scales. Drawing on qualitative interviews with three leaders operating in Sweden, a frontrunner in the global energy transition, the findings contribute empirical insights into how leadership practices are employed in real-world sustainability transitions. Theoretically, this study advances the concept of STL, extending the analytical focus beyond individual and organizational scales to include the societal level. In doing so, it provides a deeper understanding of how leadership can intentionally influence systemic change, demonstrating its critical role in advancing sustainability transitions.