Stimulating solar energy in the Netherlands: Insights from Chinese solar energy policies and enterprise dynamics
Summary
The global shift towards renewable energy is central to addressing climate change, and solar energy plays a key role in this transition. This paper studies how China and the Netherlands' national innovation systems (NIS) affected solar energy development between 2013 and 2023.
The study uses a qualitative research approach using literature analysis, policy document and news analysis, interviews, and a comparative case study design to understand the factors behind the success and limitations of the solar energy sectors in both countries. China's centralized policies, government subsidies, and strong support for state-owned enterprises have fostered rapid innovation, cost reduction, and large-scale solar technology deployment, making China a global leader in solar panel manufacturing. The Netherlands is a more market-oriented economy that has performed well in solar power generation per capita but still relies on imported solar technology, primarily from China. This reliance on imports of solar technologies has impeded its ability to compete with China globally.
The Netherlands could learn from China's integrated solar industry development model, for example, fostering a full value chain and strengthening the central government’s power to promote policy. By learning elements of the Chinese approach, such as coordinated government support and the establishment of national banks to invest in domestic solar manufacturing, the Netherlands can strengthen its solar industry's global presence and achieve more sustainable energy independence and national energy security. This research provides insights for Dutch policymakers seeking to adapt NIS to accelerate solar development while achieving long-term climate and energy goals.