De waarde van lokale energie

Abstract

This study explores the role of a non-profitorganizations by supporting energy-initiatives in the context of the civil society and the energy transition. This study has focused on the Natuur en Milieufederatie Utrecht (NMU), a non-profitorganization in the county Utrecht. First, a theoretical framework is presented. The data for this study were collected by semi-structured interviews. In total, there were nine volunteers of energy-initiatives and the director of energy of the NMU interviewed. On the basis of the results it can be concluded that the NMU supports energy-initiatives in differents ways. First, by creating a large network of energy-initiatives within the energy transition. Second, by have an intermediary role between society and governments. Third, by exchanging knowledge and networks. Furthermore it turned out that there has been a gap between the ask for support by energy-initiatives and the actual support the NMU is giving. The NMU is recommend to communicate with the energy-initiatives what kind of support the NMU can offer them. Practical and theoretical implications are discussed and suggestions for future research are given.