The Ministry of Economic Affairs has commissioned ECN to evaluate the
sustainable energy policy in the period 1999-2004. This encompasses
renewable energy, energy efficiency, CO2 reduction plan and Research,
Development and Demonstration. Objective of the evaluation is to assess
the efficiency and effectiveness of the sustainable energy policy in
the period 1999-2004, and to see which lessons can be learnt from the
experiences.
A general overview of the elements of sustainable energy policy
and their relations is provided. A reconstruction of the policy framework
that has been put into place has been made for each policy element.
This consists of a description of the goals, policy instrument mix,
responsibili-ties and monitoring systems. For each policy element, the
results achieved are compared with the objectives. Also, estimations
have been made as to how much of the effect can be attributed to the
policy put into place. Finally, side effects have been estimated, such
as emissions of NOx, SO2 and particulate matter. The efficiency of the
policy has been calculated by comparing the expenses with the policy
effects. This has been carried out on a policy instrument basis (subsidy
effectiveness) and on national level (national cost effectiveness and
final consumer effective-ness).
Additional policy aspects discussed are security of supply, international
cooperation, zero emis-sions fossil fuel technology, administrative
costs and macro-economic effects.