New future perspectives through constructive conflict: Exploring the future of gas in the Netherlands

Journal article (2016)

Authors

A. Ligtvoet Economics of Technology and Innovation - TPM
E.H.W.J. Cuppen Organisation & Governance - TPM
O. Di Ruggero Policy Analysis - TPM
Kas Hemmes Economics of Technology and Innovation - TPM
U. Pesch Ethics & Philosophy of Technology - TPM
J.N. Quist Energy and Industry
D.C. Mehos Economics of Technology and Innovation - TPM
Research Group
Economics of Technology and Innovation (TPM) (TU Delft)
Copyright: © 2016 A. Ligtvoet, E.H.W.J. Cuppen, O. Di Ruggero, Kas Hemmes, U. Pesch, J.N. Quist, D.C. Mehos
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.futures.2016.03.008
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Published Date

2016

Language

English

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Faculty

Technology, Policy and Management

Department

Values Technology and Innovation

Research Group

Economics of Technology and Innovation

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.