A proposed framework for renewable energy technology commercialization and partnership synergy : A case study approach

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to propose a theoretical framework for renewable energy (RE) technology commercialization and partnership synergy. The interrelations/influences between external/internal factors, stakeholders’ partnership synergy, and resources in the form of dynamic capabilities and implementation mechanisms are used in this framework to explore the path toward overcoming non-technical barriers for RE technologies commercialization success. Design/methodology/approach – Prior relevant research/literature is reviewed to derive the proposed theoretical framework constructs, while insight information on relationship between them is gained through case study methodology. The results of four case studies along with 16 validity/checkpoint interviews were used to support/reject 25 propositions linking the constructs. Findings – The findings of the study supported 24 out of 25 propositions representing these relations, whereas one was rejected. The framework suggests that partnership synergy, if achieved, produces a unique internal and external resource combination that will result in successful technology commercialization. Research limitations/implications – This study is limited to RE technologies and did not focus individually on non-technical barriers. Future research may extend into other industries and explore the impact of partnership synergy on each non-technical barrier of technology commercialization. Originality/value – Due to absence of economic theory of synergy there is a gap in academic literature regarding partnership between stakeholders of innovative technologies, the level of its synergy and their relation to successful commercialization. The study attempts to fill this gap to some extent through the produced theoretical framework, which might also help a broad array of RE projects’ participants maximize the returns by realizing full advantage of collaboration with other stakeholders.