Knowledge flows in global renewable energy innovation systems: the role of technological and geographical distance

Understanding the global knowledge dynamics of renewable energy technologies requires consideration both technological and geographical dimensions. This paper assesses relative importance distant in future development innovation systems (TIS) renewables. Using patents, we quantify absorptive capacity countries as degree accumulation diffusion between domestic actors a TIS. Our results show that international flows within TIS are more important for with smaller capacity, whereas larger benefit from originating other TISs. Consequently, each country faces unique opportunities constraints respect to developments when developing technologies. These findings lead policy implications specific different countries.