Understanding Multi-System Interlinkages Between Energy and Mobility Systems and Their Governance in the UK

Electrification and digitalization are increasing the interconnectedness and complexity of sustainability transitions. This study uses the concept of interlinkages from large technical systems (LTS) literature to examine interactions between energy and mobility systems in the UK’s net-zero transition. Drawing on interviews, policy analysis, and industry reports, we distinguish three types of interlinkages: functional (e.g., smart charging and vehicle-to-grid technologies enabling EVs as flexible energy assets), technical (e.g., expansion of digital infrastructure and standardization for interoperability), and organizational (e.g., new partnerships and cross-sector collaborations). We also identify governance interlinkages - coordination mechanisms and regulatory alignment - as a critical dimension shaping system interactions. Our findings show that digital technologies act as enabling infrastructure rather than separate systems, and that LTS offers a valuable complementary lens for understanding multi-system dynamics and governing the growing complexity of sustainability transitions.