The missing link between digital transformation and business model innovation in energy SMEs: The role of digital organisational culture

Increasing levels of competitiveness and intensified efforts to source energy from renewable sources, as well as growing pressure to implement green solutions, are challenging the effectiveness of conventional business models in the energy sector. Previous research on the processes of change in the energy sector highlight the necessity to implement business model innovations supported by digital transformation solutions. It is also clear that the process of implementation, particularly for SMEs, is associated with a high risk of failure. Based on research linking organisational culture and digitalisation, this article aims to explain how digital culture mediates the relationship between digital transformation and business model innovation in energy companies in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) countries. The results suggest that the limited direct impact of digital transformation on business model innovation in energy companies is realised indirectly through digital organisational culture, indicating the importance of digital organisational culture in successful business model transformation.