SPATIAL CONFLICTS OF ENERGY TRANSITION: dilemmas of government, landowners, land use conflicts, and renewable energy development

The energy transition is crucial for combating climate change, reducing fossil fuel dependence, and shifting to renewable energy sources. However, implementing renewable energy projects often leads to spatial conflicts, particularly in densely populated areas like the Netherlands. This dissertation examines these conflicts, focusing on the governance dilemmas between different government levels and the interests of local stakeholders, including landowners. These conflicts are not purely technical but are rooted in socio-cultural and institutional dynamics. The energy transition transforms landscapes with wind turbines, solar farms, and high-voltage grids, requiring a balance between infrastructure needs and existing land uses such as agriculture, urban development, and cultural heritage. The decentralised nature of renewable energy projects adds complexity, as national policies often clash with local priorities, causing tensions and delays. Through five interrelated studies, this dissertation explores the spatial conflicts and governance challenges in the energy transition. The research employs a mixed-method approach, integrating qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Case studies provide insights into specific conflicts, using interviews with policymakers, landowners, and local communities, alongside policy document analysis. The planning triangle model reveals the interactions between planning objects, processes, and contexts, offering a deeper understanding of governance dilemmas. Findings indicate that top-down governance approaches often fail to address the complex, localised nature of energy transition conflicts. Centralised strategies overlook socio-cultural factors and stakeholder motivations, leading to resistance, delays, and project failures. More effective are decentralised, participatory governance models, which strengthen local government and community involvement. This dissertation introduces "integrated land-use management", a holistic approach that considers economic, ecological, and social dimensions to mitigate tensions. A key challenge is the tension between government levels, especially when local authorities are tasked with implementing national policies, such as wind and solar energy projects. Conflicts arise from mismatches between formal policy frameworks and local realities, alongside unclear responsibilities and limited resources at the local level. Despite the principle of subsidiarity, which favours decision-making at the lowest possible level, local authorities often lack the means to act effectively, leading to further project delays. Landowners play a crucial role, particularly in high-voltage grid expansion. Financial compensation alone is insufficient to ensure acceptance—fair distribution of benefits and burdens is essential. Trust and inclusion in decision-making significantly impact stakeholder support, highlighting the need for effective communication and genuine engagement. Urban areas face heightened challenges due to limited space and competing land uses. Poor integration between energy and urban planning creates barriers to renewable energy development. This research advocates for better integration of energy projects into strategic planning frameworks to reduce conflicts and support sustainable urban development. A regional governance approach could help bridge the gap between national policy and local implementation. Adaptive governance frameworks, which respond flexibly to changing circumstances, are key to a successful energy transition. This dissertation provides insights for policymakers, including strengthening regional cooperation, ensuring fair compensation, and embedding participatory decision-making in policy. By aligning national energy goals with local realities, enhancing multi-level governance, and prioritising energy justice, policymakers and stakeholders can accelerate the energy transition while ensuring social acceptance.