Emerging Innovation Systems for Renewable Energy in the MENA : A Comparative Perspective on Egypt and Morocco

This paper examines the emerging innovation system for renewable energy in Egypt and Morocco, where concerns for satisfying increasing energy demand and for stimulating private sector development have become more acute in light of recent political changes. Using the innovation system conceptual framework we not only describe the role of different stakeholders and institutions involved in the development of the renewable energy sector; we also delve deeper into comparing and contrasting the complex governance of the innovation system around renewable energy in the two countries, the type of policies considered and the rationale behind them. The analysis allows us to hypothesise on how these early choices are likely to shape emerging renewable energy sectors in the larger MENA region. The research questions explored comparatively in Egypt and Morocco are: How does the renewable energy agenda influence the emergence and functioning of the innovation system? What factors affect policy choices and what mechanisms drive or hinder the development of the innovation system?