The conversion of our current unsustainable energy supply to a sustainable system is a very complex and at the same time urgent problem with a multitude of technical-scientific and socio-economic aspects, among others. The question is which building blocks we need for an optimally composed sustainable energy supply. Furthermore, urgency, reliability and cost are also major challenges. In today's competitive energy market, it is difficult for new renewable technologies to gain a foothold if they are more expensive than energy generated from fossil fuels. Scientific research in this field is therefore also closely linked to the corresponding economic opportunities. In addition, public support for renewable energy facilities is very important. After all, discussions about the placement of wind turbines (Not In My Backyard), for example, are often difficult to resolve in the densely populated Netherlands. Furthermore, there are great opportunities here for ICT to increase energy efficiency and to coordinate energy generation and consumption in a smart way through smart grids.
Connecting character
Building a sustainable energy system including smart energy cities and smart grids is a key priority theme in research and innovation programmes in the Netherlands and abroad. Access to affordable, reliable and sustainable energy is part of the world's major challenges. Addressing the issue effectively requires fundamental new insights into various alternative energy sources such as wind, solar, bio-based, and geothermal, and rapid translation of new knowledge into practice in multidisciplinary collaboration. Ultimately, the problem will have to be addressed globally. Combining effective and efficient spatial planning and organisation of renewable energy with optimal public support requires input from a wide range of disciplines, including the social sciences. The timely adaptation of laws and regulations is also an issue. The Netherlands has a strong knowledge position in key areas and plays a pioneering role in several fields.
