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ECN publication
Title:
Exploration of pathways towards a clean economy by 2050. How to realise a climate-neutral Netherlands
 
Author(s):
Ros, J.; Koelemeijer, R.; Elzenga, H.E.; Peters, J.; Hekkenberg, M.; Bosch, P.
 
Published by: Publication date:
ECN Policy Studies 5-12-2011
 
ECN report number: Document type:
ECN-O--11-077 Other
 
Number of pages: Full text:
58 Download PDF  

Abstract:
A significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions is required if climate change is to be limited to an acceptable level. This will involve a radical change in the energy system and will take some time. Achieving such a change is a complex task – as well as providing many chances, it also raises many questions concerning energy resource availability, the opportunities offered by innovative technologies and the achievability of institutional change. A period of 40 years (up to 2050) in this context is actually quite short. There are four important pillars for a clean energy system: reduction in energy demand; biomass; carbon capture and storage; and more use of CO2-free electricity (wind, solar, nuclear). Each of these pillars will play a crucial role, but there are uncertainties about the possibilities of innovative technologies, the availability of new resources and the feasilibility of institutional changes. The Dutch Government plans to present a roadmap towards a cleaner country by 2050. This roadmap may form the foundation for a more clear and consistent policy, focusing on the long term. Further development and implementation of each of the four pillars are important elements of such a policy. Its realisation will have the character of a search, taking into account new knowledge and changing circumstances. It is up to stakeholders and public bodies to gradually implement this roadmap. The PBL Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency has supported this policy process together with the Energy research Centre of the Netherlands (ECN), by exploring technical possibilities and steps to take, the results of which are presented in this report.

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