Institutionalized knowledge conflict in assessing the possible contributions of H2 to a sustainable energy system for the Netherlands

This paper reports on a stakeholder dialogue project on the possible contribution of hydrogen to the Dutch energy transition. Dialogue methodology aims at articulating and exploring competing perspectives, including views that are in the margin of the energy policy subsystem. Three dialogue groups explored trajectories labeled Hydrogen for Transport, Hydrogen for the Built Environment and Hydrogen in the existing natural gas grid. The groups identified barriers and opportunities for the trajectories through back casting and assessed its pros and cons as compared to a non-hydrogen alternative. Referees from abroad contributed to a confrontation workshop, where the groups exchanged and discussed their first findings. The dialogue reveals that stakeholders are strongly divided with respect to small-scale domestic as well as the concept of a flexible natural gas infrastructure. We find a conflict between knowledge claims that either support or challenge the status quo. This is referred to as institutionalized knowledge conflict.