When heat becomes hot business - An innovation system perspective on barriers to BioGrid and District Heating development in the Netherlands

Abstract

The current energy system is not sustainable and changes are needed. However, these changes are hampered because of various reasons. This research investigates the barriers specific to the development of the Dutch BioGrid and District Heating innovation systems. The adopted research methods comprise of a literature review, expert interviews, social network analysis, and event history analysis; with according empirical data. For the Event History Analysis the addition of a cumulative graph of the results provides deeper understanding of the Technological Innovation Systems (TIS) functions over time. The assessment of the phase of development, the structure, and functioning of the innovation system in combination with the systemic problems framework provides a solid ground for the identification of barriers to innovation system development. The in the overarching analysis identified barriers are discussed and linked to their respective sources. This thesis moves further by providing recommendations for fostering the development of both technological innovation systems.