Interdisciplinary Studies

Social and technical differentiation in smart meter rollout: embedded scalar biases in automating Norwegian and Portuguese energy infrastructure

S. Sareen

This research by Siddharth Sareen explores how automation is reshaping energy transitions through the lens of smart meter rollouts in Norway and Portugal, highlighting how these changes can simultaneously empower and alienate users. Discover the complex dynamics that risk dehumanizing technical aspects while limiting individual agency in shaping energy futures.

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Index

Abstract

This article examines the intersection of automation and energy transitions, focusing on the uneven scalar effects of smart meter rollouts in Norway and Portugal. Using comparative case studies, it identifies twin scalar biases: (i) social aspects of automation are controlled at higher scales while users are responsibilised at the household scale, and (ii) control and responsibility for technical aspects are restricted to higher scales. The article argues that these biases risk dehumanizing technical aspects and detechnicizing social aspects, limiting agency and shaping energy futures.

Publisher

Humanities and Social Sciences Communications

Published On

Jul 08, 2020

Authors

Siddharth Sareen

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