Elexia Article - Durham University

The EU-funded ELEXIA initiative is sparking a fresh conversation about what it means to live a “good life” during the global energy transition. While design innovation remains central to sustainable energy systems, the project argues that technology alone cannot address deep-rooted social and ethical questions.

The article highlights how communities most affected by climate change—often historically marginalized—continue to bear the brunt of energy projects, from land grabs for solar farms to displacement for hydroelectric dams. ELEXIA calls for a shift in perspective: rather than focusing solely on efficiency and automation, the transition should reimagine work, freedom, and collective futures.

Through concepts like “Resource Man”, “Smart Wife”, and “Flexibility Woman”, the piece critiques narrow assumptions embedded in energy system design. While “Resource Man” represents the rational, tech-driven household manager, real-life complexities often override automation. In contrast, “Flexibility Woman” embodies adaptive, human-centered energy management—emphasizing improvisation and emotional labor over rigid optimization.

Co-authored by DEI Fellow Nora Wuttke and DEI Director Simone Abram, the publication underscores that the energy transition is not just a technical challenge but a cultural and social one. By questioning dominant narratives and integrating diverse perspectives, ELEXIA aims to ensure that sustainability does not come at the expense of equity.

👉 Explore the full article and join the conversation on shaping fair and inclusive energy futures: Read more here.

ELEXIA Challenges Conventional Thinking in Energy Transition