The geography of sustainability transition and materiality: grid-tied solar photovoltaic technology in Sri Lanka

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe geography of sustainability transition (GeoST) literature views solar photovoltaic (PV) as an off-the-shelf, footloose, absolute technology for bringing about a technological shift in locations with high solar irradiation. Herein, I argue against viewing solar technology in these ways, highlighting that consideration should also be given to the configuration of solar PV that suits the contextual conditions. To this end, I offer empirical evidence for the need to approach solar PV diffusion through a relational perspective. Accordingly, different solar PV technology formats may become necessary for its successful implementation in diverse contexts. Supportive empirical evidence comes from Sri Lanka’s large-scale grid-tied solar PV implementation. I conclude the paper with an analytical consideration of the influence of material factors as being as important within GeoST as that of intangible factors, and that technological shift should be pursued within a location’s contextual relational materiality.

Keywords

• geography of sustainability transition
• absolute materiality
• relational materiality
• solar photovoltaic
• land
• Sri Lanka