Energy Social Innovation

The Dutch energy sector has many solutions available for sustainability and the energy transition. But these solutions are mainly technical in nature, such as smart thermostats, heat pumps, storing energy in batteries and energy-efficient buildings. Research into the social and behavioural aspects of sustainability and energy is lagging behind and is usually conducted separately from technical research.

For example, it may happen that at a late, technical development stage, behavioural science research shows that people do not accept technology or are unwilling to adjust their behaviour. These social factors can slow down the energy transition and cause unnecessary costs to be incurred. There is a need for a multidisciplinary approach.