To successfully shift towards renewable energy, it’s essential to consider not just how we produce it, but also where we place those facilities. Wind turbines, solar farms, and their necessary infrastructure need specific locations, which presents a significant challenge for governments and utility companies.

Martijn Gerritsen explored these challenges and proposed various solutions. He earned his Ph.D. from Radboud University on June 13.

In his dissertation, Gerritsen studied the evolution of decisions related to energy infrastructure and land use in recent years. A key element in this is the development of Regional Energy Strategies (RES). Since 2019, 30 energy regions have been created in the Netherlands, where local governments and utility operators collaborate on energy planning.

“These energy regions have transformed policy-making and decisions significantly, but they faced numerous issues initially due to conflicting interests,” Gerritsen explains.

“For instance, many areas chose to develop solar farms because they enjoy greater public backing. While some view them as unattractive and have concerns about the cost of heat networks, solar parks tend to spark less debate. However, solar projects often require locations with limited infrastructure, which strains the existing power grid.”

Tackling Grid Overload through Better Planning

This situation has actually intensified the problem of grid overload, leading to delays in completing new homes and business areas since they couldn’t connect to the power supply in time.

Gerritsen notes, “On the bright side, this has served as a wake-up call for governmental bodies. It has become clear that the transition to renewable energy involves more than just constructing new facilities; it also requires spatial planners to contemplate how and where energy is integrated into urban developments.”

He advocates for a more strategic approach to energy planning, suggesting that utility companies should be involved in the early stages of spatial planning. “Currently, they are often consulted too late in the process, despite their expertise being crucial for making informed decisions.”

Bridging Communication Gaps

On the flip side, utility companies also need to grasp how governmental and spatial decision-making processes function. “Every party has its own terminology and methods, which can lead to misunderstandings and slow down progress. It’s important to vocalize these frustrations, pinpoint the issues, and learn to communicate effectively to enhance collaboration.”

Incorporating Energy Planning into Education and Practice

During his research, Gerritsen collaborated closely with the utility provider Alliander. “I found a strong eagerness to collaborate and learn. Utility companies are aware that their role is evolving and are actively pursuing partnerships with government entities and academic institutions.”

The findings from his research are now influencing both educational programs and practical applications, including a new course on energy planning integrated into Radboud University’s urban planning master’s program. “Our goal is to prepare students who can contribute positively to the energy transition.”