New future perspectives through constructive conflict: Exploring the future of gas in the Netherlands
A Ligtvoet (TU Delft - Economics of Technology and Innovation)
EHWJ Cuppen (TU Delft - Organisation & Governance)
O Di Ruggero (TU Delft - Policy Analysis)
K Hemmes (TU Delft - Economics of Technology and Innovation)
U Pesch (TU Delft - Ethics & Philosophy of Technology)
JN Quist (TU Delft - Energy and Industry)
DC Mehos (TU Delft - Economics of Technology and Innovation)
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Abstract
This paper reports on the refinement of constructive conflict methodology (CCM) combining Q methodology and stakeholder dialogue workshops for gas futures for the Netherlands. Since the end of the 1950s, natural gas exploration and exploitation has been a major focus of the Dutch energy policy. Discussions about the future of energy in the Netherlands tend to focus either on pro-gas or pro-renewable energy. Using Q methodology we have constructed more nuanced perspectives on the future of energy in the Netherlands. We used these perspectives in a stakeholder dialogue, in
which the participants further detailed the perspectives and discussed future policy options. Analysis of the outcomes of this process teaches us that the Netherlands remain gas-focused, that renewable energy sources are as much a dogma as nuclear power was in the 1960s, and that the prospect of an austere future is a non-debatable issue. From a methodological perspective it can be concluded that the refined methodology contributed to diversity in views, opened up the dominant discourse and led to learning among participating stakeholders.