This thesis examines the role of Automated Decision-Making (ADM) systems in advancing energy justice within urban Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure (EVCI) in the Netherlands. Centred on distributive, procedural, and recognition justice, the study explores how ADM impacts equitable access to EV charging and fair energy distribution amid the rapid electrification of passenger mobility. While ADM promises improved grid efficiency and stability, alleviating congestion, it also risks exacerbating socio-economic disparities in access to essential charging resources and energy, potentially widening existing inequalities.

Using a mixed-method approach encompassing Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis, Scenario Development, and Q-methodology, this research examines ADM’s effects on equity, fairness, inclusivity, and transparency across socio-economic groups. GIS findings reveal disparities in EVCI accessibility between affluent and low-income neighbourhoods in Amsterdam, highlighting the need for ADM frameworks that consider socio-economic factors in energy allocation. Scenario Development projects futures where stakeholders must balance individual and community needs, illustrating the critical trade-offs required to achieve equitable energy distribution. The Q-methodology builds consensus among diverse stakeholders, underscoring transparency and procedural fairness in promoting trust and aligning ADM outcomes with public values.

This study contributes to energy justice literature by showing how ADM systems can promote equitable EVCI outcomes that are just and inclusive. Policy recommendations offer a phased roadmap: in the short term, prioritise equitable distribution of EVCI using socio-economic data; in the medium term, develop adaptive ADM models for high-demand and grid-constrained regions; and in the long term, enhance community engagement through accessible platforms. \textit{Mindful Power} envisions ADM systems for EVCI that optimise technological efficiency without sacrificing social justice, supporting a fairer, more inclusive energy transition. Ultimately, this thesis provides a structured roadmap for sustainable, community-centred urban energy solutions, ensuring that the transition leaves no one behind. ... Read more

The Earth is experiencing an increase in global surface temperature due to a significant amount of greenhouse gas emissions, mainly caused by the production of fossil-fuel-based energy using non-renewable resources. The heavy industries, predominantly comprising refineries, are the primary contributors to these emissions. As the primary source of energy for these industries is also fossil-fuel-based, the European Green Deal emphasizes the need for an energy transition. However, renewable energy production requires a large area, and the current energy grids are overloaded due to the lack of energy storage possibilities. A potential solution to the storage issue could be the implementation of green hydrogen. As refineries are expected to be decommissioned soon, hydrogen plants could be established in their locations, repurposing the existing infrastructure of pipelines and storage facilities. These plants would enable circular energy systems, converting hydrogen to energy using the green hydrogen production method of electrolysis, and vice versa, using fuel cells. Moreover, these redevelopments could be implemented on a larger scale, resulting in the creation of a hydrogen backbone in the Eurodelta, connecting the industrial clusters within this area and making the energy system more resilient. For the execution of a hydrogen energy system in the Netherlands, a strategy has been proposed that involves a centralized main hydrogen production and storage zone in the Port of Rotterdam, including new industries with hydrogen input and future high energy-consuming industries. Renewable energy production would be installed using offshore vertical-axis wind turbines and onshore horizontal-axis wind turbines, photovoltaic panels, and biomass. This approach would also allow for the introduction of additional green areas, improving working conditions and air quality for the re-educated industrial workforce. In addition, a second strategy involves the implementation of a decentralized energy system in an agricultural landscape in the Municipality of Zutphen. These exemplary areas can be used as models to implement this idea in similar regions across Northwest Europe. Future research could focus on technological innovations, economic feasibility, and additional limitations of the introduction of hydrogen energy systems, ensuring the return of industries as new green hubs. ... Read more