Towards an equitable solar energy transition

On reaching the solar climate goals in Amsterdam - a socioeconomic perspective on solar energy adoption using a data-driven modeling technique

Master thesis (2023)

Authors

D. van Meggelen Technology, Policy and Management

Contributors

R.I.J. Dobbe (supervisor 1)
Z. Lukszo Energy and Industry (supervisor 1)
N.Y. Aydin System Engineering - TPM (supervisor 2)
Faculty
Technology, Policy and Management
Copyright: © 2023 Daphne van Meggelen
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Published Date

11-05-2023

Language

English

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Faculty

Technology, Policy and Management

Abstract

To combat the effects of climate change, there is a worldwide shift to reduced emissions and increased use of renewable energy sources. Solar energy is a vital part of this transition and necessary to be able to achieve the targets. The rapid pace of adaptation raises questions about the negative equity and justice associated with this development. Along with the rapid growth, regional differences in solar panel adoption have been found across the world. Besides, government incentives and policies have played an important role in both adoption growth and justice implications.

This study explores the pace and equitability of the solar energy transition in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. The study evaluates the potential for solar energy, the disparity of adoption, what socio-economic factors are correlated to adoption patterns, and how adoption might evolve in the future and under different policy measures. To do so, a structured, integrated and data-driven approach is designed to meet the research objectives, and possibly serve as a policy tool for future studies.

The study shows that there is an "adoption gap" in Amsterdam, meaning that solar panels and the benefits of incentives end up with a specific group of citizens. Therefore, targeted policy measures are necessary to ensure an equitable transition.