Social Science
Exploring agenda-setting of offshore energy innovations: Niche-regime interactions in Dutch Marine Spatial Planning processes
J.E.H. Kusters,
J.E.H. Kusters
University of Groningen, Department of Spatial Planning & Environment, Landleven 1, 9747 AD, Groningen, the Netherlands
F.M.G. van Kann,
F.M.G. van Kann
University of Groningen, Department of Spatial Planning & Environment, Landleven 1, 9747 AD, Groningen, the Netherlands
C. Zuidema
C. Zuidema
University of Groningen, Department of Spatial Planning & Environment, Landleven 1, 9747 AD, Groningen, the Netherlands
Peer Reviewed
Abstract
The foreseen large-scale growth of offshore wind energy towards 2050 in pursuit of an energy transition obliges scholars and policymakers to start considering its integration in the wider offshore energy system. Both technological innovations and advances in spatial policy are necessary to facilitate offshore system integration. This study draws from agenda-setting theory to explore barriers and opportunities affecting the prioritization processes surrounding three offshore energy storage and transport concepts in Dutch marine spatial planning practice. The findings demonstrate that although various arenas for agenda-setting exist, they are geared to the input of established stakeholders, including the oil and gas and offshore wind sectors. Also, prioritization is hindered by a short-term (2030) governmental fixation and long-term institutional ambiguity. Therefore, supportive institutions are needed, providing regulatory certainty and reliable incentive mechanisms, whilst remaining adaptive to address imminent uncertainties, in pursuit of system integration needed for an energy transition.
Key Questions
What is the future of offshore wind energy in the Netherlands?
The Netherlands is planning large-scale growth of offshore wind energy by 2050 as part of its energy transition. This growth requires integrating offshore wind with other energy systems, such as storage and transport, to ensure efficiency and sustainability.
What are the challenges of integrating offshore wind energy?
Challenges include short-term government focus (e.g., targets for 2030), long-term institutional uncertainty, and the dominance of established stakeholders like the oil and gas industry. These factors hinder the prioritization of innovative energy storage and transport solutions.
What are the key concepts for offshore energy integration?
The study highlights three key concepts: offshore energy storage, energy transport, and system integration. These are essential for creating a cohesive offshore energy system that supports the transition to renewable energy.
How does marine spatial planning affect offshore wind energy?
Marine spatial planning plays a critical role in allocating space and resources for offshore wind projects. However, current practices often prioritize established industries, making it harder for new technologies and concepts to gain traction.
What role do stakeholders play in offshore energy planning?
Established stakeholders, such as the oil and gas sector, dominate decision-making processes, often sidelining newer technologies and smaller players. This creates barriers to innovation and the integration of renewable energy solutions.
What is agenda-setting theory, and how does it apply to offshore energy?
Agenda-setting theory explores how issues are prioritized in policy and planning. In offshore energy, it reveals that current processes favor short-term goals and established industries, making it difficult to advance long-term, innovative solutions.
What are the barriers to offshore energy storage and transport?
Barriers include regulatory uncertainty, lack of incentives, and institutional ambiguity. These issues prevent the prioritization of offshore energy storage and transport concepts in marine spatial planning.
How can policymakers support offshore energy integration?
Policymakers can support integration by creating supportive institutions, providing regulatory certainty, and developing reliable incentive mechanisms. These measures should remain flexible to address future uncertainties and technological advancements.
What are the opportunities for offshore energy innovation?
Opportunities include developing new technologies for energy storage and transport, fostering collaboration between industries, and aligning marine spatial planning with long-term energy transition goals.
Why is long-term planning important for offshore wind energy?
Long-term planning is essential to address institutional ambiguity, align policies with 2050 energy transition goals, and ensure the integration of offshore wind energy with other renewable energy systems.
