Menu image/svg+xml

Adaptation in the utilities sector Empirical insights and influencing factors

 

The functionality of the utility sector is of utmost importance for a society. Failures result in shortages in supply, disturbances of public security and other far-reaching consequences. Rail transport and energy supply are important examples of this critical infrastructure. Just these branches are affected by climate change in various ways. Temperature changes affect power generation and supply, storms and extreme temperatures can affect rail traffic. In this context the question of adaptation to climate change becomes increasingly important. The study presented in this paper provides insight into the way companies in the energy and rail transport industry deal with the issue of adaptation. Based on conceptual considerations about corporate adaptation the study tries to identify internal and external factors influencing firms in their consideration of the consequences of climate change.