From concept to practice: a replication framework for equitable energy transitions in European islands

Abstract

The replication of sustainable energy systems is key to accelerating equitable energy transitions in European island communities. This study develops a structured replication methodology for Multi-Energy Systems (MES), introducing the Replication Readiness Index (RRI), a TOPSIS-based tool quantifying both decarbonization potential and distributional justice outcomes. The methodology integrates technical optimization with social equity assessment through six operational steps, ensuring vulnerable populations benefit from rather than bear the costs of energy transitions. The framework is anchored in the structural distinctness of island energy systems, namely grid isolation, sectoral supply-chain fragility, and the demographic over-representation of vulnerable groups, rather than presenting a generic just-transition instrument transferable to any community without translation. In the examined case study, there were identified 87% GHG emissions reduction, 30% overall energy cost decrease, and 81% savings for a local bakery industry through integrated PV-wind-biomass systems. Critically, the approach creates new income streams while concurrently addressing energy poverty among small businesses. The RRI analysis (0.75) provides policymakers with evidence-based metrics for prioritizing investments that achieve both climate and social justice objectives. Practical applications include: (1) standardized equity impact assessment protocols for energy infrastructure approval, (2) funding allocation criteria linking financial support to RRI scores, ensuring resources target communities demonstrating both technical readiness and equity commitment, and (3) structured stakeholder engagement frameworks mandating vulnerable group representation in energy planning decisions. The methodology addresses implementation barriers including regulatory constraints, capital requirements, and grid integration through adaptive strategies validated in real-world conditions. This replication framework transforms abstract just transition principles into measurable outcomes, offering European policymakers, energy agencies, and island communities an actionable pathway where rapid decarbonization and social equity reinforce each other. Methodologically, the framework sits within the Operations Research tradition (TOPSIS multi-criteria analysis with AHP-derived weights), aligns its workflow with ISO 50,001 (energy management) and ISO 37,101 (sustainable development of communities), and operationalises the Scalability indicator through the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) framework, functioning as an innovation-management instrument for energy cooperative schemes (energy communities, clusters and local networks).

Keywords

Replication methodology / Multi-energy systems / Island energy transition / Sustainable energy planning

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Funding

Technical University of Crete

RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS

The Author(s)