Spatial Practices of the Energy Transition and the Case of Biogas Production in Rhineland-Palatinate

The energy transition has received increasing scientific interest over the last decade. A main focus is set on regional transformations from conventional to renewable energies. There, regions are typically defined as action spaces nested between local and national policy levels, and transition processes are analyzed in or between such regions. Adding on this, the main purpose of the paper in hand is to understand the processes that lead to the formation and change of such regions. How get energy regions constituted and transformed? Which geographical aspects are important for these processes? A qualitative case study from western Rhineland-Palatinate in Germany focusing on biogas co-fermentation explores different practices and routines of energy producers that illuminate the constitution, stabilization and transformation of "energy regions". Problem-centered interviews are conducted with 20 plant operators to understand individual perceptions of routines and practices. The findings from these micro case studies are generalized and show the changing practices over time, their spatial connotations, and their importance for the energy transition. The paper discloses both, individual (practical knowledge and cognitive preconditions) and structural contexts (accessibility and availability of knowledge, existing networks and political frameworks) that are important for transition practices. Thereby, we show that over time the energy region changes from a subject oriented space to a regional network space bound to actors practicing in spatial proximity and building on mutual learning effects.