PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN THE GOVERNANCE OF THE LITHUANIAN ELECTRICAL ENERGY SECTOR

Abstract

The article examines public participation and mechanisms of citizens'involvement in the governance of the electrical energy sector. Three aspects of publicengagement are analysed: 1) the participants of this process; 2) the level ofengagement; 3) the phase of the governance process during which the public isinvolved. To provide a comprehensive review of the main characteristics of thegovernance of the Lithuanian electrical energy sector, a semi-structured interview ofexperts was carried out. Institutions that formulate and implement governancepolicies are reviewed, the possibilities of public participation and the potential toolsof engagement are analysed. Finally, the mechanisms that create proper conditionsfor citizens' involvement in the governance of the electrical energy sector (asconsumers and active electricity sector participants) are discussed.