ABSTRACT
The Netherlands is expected to fall short of its 14% renewable energy target by 2020, despite the adoption of measures to intensify renewable energy capacity investment. Biomass is currently the main source of renewable energy in the Netherlands and wind energy deployment has recently accelerated. However, for compliance with 2020 and future targets, solar energy opportunities also need to be utilised. Technically, solar PV can deliver a significant contribution to realising Dutch renewable energy and climate ambitions. However, uncertainties around scaling up solar energy in the Netherlands and how these could transform into risks need to be understood. In this chapter, we assess these uncertainties and risks by looking at the application of both rooftop solar panels in the built environment and ground-mounted solar parks. Among the risks identified are the possible impact on grid stability (as a consequence of scaling up an intermittent renewable energy technology) and the implementation risk of social resistance in case solar parks are increasingly located near residential cores in the country. We also identify viable approaches to mitigate these risks.
