Abstract

Abstract:As the use of renewable energy becomes more popular in the twenty-first century, this will cause questions to be asked, such as who owns renewable energy? This question has not yet been asked in a formalized academic setting with a view to philosophically justifying ownership. However, after reviewing ownership types from a variety of schools of thought, it was found that an ownership type based around the work of John Locke, would be the most suitable. In particular, the Lockean-inspired model would have many benefits including: fulfilling human rights, satisfying group rights, and encouraging the domestic harnessing of renewable energy. It benefits from the fact that renewable energy is both widespread and abundant, and also from the fact that the harnessing equipment is now becoming more affordable and available. Moreover, the Lockean-inspired work could forge an ethos aiding its practical introduction, possibly via legislation if needed.