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 public
engagement are analysed: 1) the participants of this process; 2) the level of
engagement; 3) the phase of the governance process during which the public is
involved. To provide a comprehensive review of the main characteristics of the
governance of the Lithuanian electrical energy sector, a semi-structured interview of
experts was carried out. Institutions that formulate and implement governance
policies are reviewed, the possibilities of public participation and the potential tools
of engagement are analysed. Finally, the mechanisms that create proper conditions
for citizens’ involvement in the governance of the electrical energy sector (as
consumers and active electricity sector participants) are discussed.