The Transformative Capacity of Local Administrations in Sustainability Transitions

The uptake of green innovation is crucial for local sustainability transitions but is far from a traditional task for local administrations. It is therefore important to study how they build transformative capacity to implement directionality. This paper compares three Danish cases of local administrations implementing the rollout of solar energy. Using a novel conceptual framework, we examine how they interpret mandates, mobilise resources and develop internal abilities. The paper shows how variation across these dimensions shapes differences in transformative capacity during implementation. It concludes with practical recommendations for local policymakers and suggests future research about transformative capacity at organisational level.