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Key enablers for energy firms in implementing the SDGs: Lessons based on a resource-based view approach

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  • Llach, Josep
  • Palau-Pinyana, Erola
  • Lei, Linan
  • Perramon, Jordi

Abstract

Considering the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, this paper explores the critical role of the energy sector in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Employing a resource-based view perspective, this study investigates the enablers that facilitate SDGs implementation within global energy firms, distinguishing between renewable energy and fossil fuel firms. By means of an empirical analysis using the Refinitiv Eikon database, covering 522 firms across the fossil fuel and renewable energy sectors, Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling and Qualitative Comparative Analysis are used to understand the enablers that explain the implementation of SDGs in this industry. Our findings indicate significant differences between renewable energy and fossil fuel firms in relation to the effectiveness of enablers, underscoring the complexity of implementing SDGs in the energy sector. This study contributes to the theoretical understanding of how energy firms can leverage their resources and capabilities to align with the 2030 Agenda, offering insights for policymakers and practitioners aiming to support the transition of the energy sector towards sustainability.

Suggested Citation

  • Llach, Josep & Palau-Pinyana, Erola & Lei, Linan & Perramon, Jordi, 2025. "Key enablers for energy firms in implementing the SDGs: Lessons based on a resource-based view approach," Technological Forecasting and Social Change, Elsevier, vol. 213(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:tefoso:v:213:y:2025:i:c:s0040162525000423
    DOI: 10.1016/j.techfore.2025.124011
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    5. Ivan Montiel & Alvaro Cuervo-Cazurra & Junghoon Park & Raquel Antolín-López & Bryan W. Husted, 2021. "Implementing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals in international business," Journal of International Business Studies, Palgrave Macmillan;Academy of International Business, vol. 52(5), pages 999-1030, July.
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Energy; Fossil fuel; Renewable energy; Sustainable Development Goals;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • O0 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - General
    • Q01 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - General - - - Sustainable Development
    • C15 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric and Statistical Methods and Methodology: General - - - Statistical Simulation Methods: General
    • L25 - Industrial Organization - - Firm Objectives, Organization, and Behavior - - - Firm Performance
    • Q4 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Energy

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