The Nordic welfare model providing energy transition? A political geography approach to the EU RES directive

► We explore the energy transition in the heating/cooling sector in Sweden 1980-2000. ► The role of the state is studied from a political geography perspective. ► The changing welfare model offered the necessary institutional framework. ► Institutional arrangements stand out as central to explain the relative success. ► The use of renewables in EU member states will continue to vary significantly.