Designing For Tensions: A Nascent Design Theory For Decision Support Systems In Renewable Energy Communities

Renewable Energy Communities (RECs) are characterised by the simultaneous pursuit of economic efficiency and social inclusion. However, existing decision support systems (DSSs) are largely grounded in optimisation logics that reduce such multidimensional objectives to static trade-offs, overlooking their persistent and interdependent nature. This research argues that RECs expose a limitation in current DSS design, considering the lack of mechanisms to represent and manage enduring tensions between competing goals. Adopting a Design Science Research (DSR) approach, we propose an emerging design perspective centred on the notion of tension-aware DSS. We articulate a nascent design theory that integrates insights from paradox theory with data warehouse design principles, enabling the representation and exploration of socio-economic tensions across time and stakeholder levels. The contribution lies in reframing DSSs from tools for optimisation to infrastructures supporting the navigation of persistent tensions in sustainability contexts.