The Evolution of Energy Citizenship in the Netherlands: From Protest to Partnership with Business and Government

This chapter traces the dynamic history of energy citizenship in the Netherlands, an evolution from grassroots protests to partnerships with businesses and government entities. Through a comprehensive analysis of historical events, case studies, and policy developments, the study shows how energy citizenship in the Netherlands has evolved from opposition to nuclear power in the early 1970s to today’s diverse and multifaceted initiatives. The research employs a mix of qualitative methods, including interviews, document analysis, and workshops, focusing on Dutch energy citizenship initiatives such as Weert Energie, Ameland, LSA, and Loenen Energie. These examples not only showcase transformative goals and agency but also reflect the Poldermodel, a consensus-based decision-making process prevalent in the Netherlands characterised by collaboration and negotiation between multiple stakeholders, including the government, employers, labour unions, and other relevant parties. The paper also examines the role of intermediaries in enhancing energy citizenship and how changing power dynamics and institutional structures have influenced the energy transition. By comparing the rise and nature of energy cooperatives from the 1980s to the present day, the study highlights significant shifts in citizen engagement, technological adoption, and policy influence. The findings reveal that while energy citizenship in the Netherlands has achieved notable successes, it continues to navigate complex challenges in pursuit of a more sustainable and democratic energy future.