Energy and Materials Transition

Developing technologies to extract energy from solar and wind more cheaply and effectively, making smart use of the scarce space available in the Netherlands.

Developing ground-breaking innovations and system innovations to make energy-intensive industry carbon-neutral and increase the export potential of the Netherlands. Among other things, we focus on the industrial energy supply, carbon capture and reuse, hydrogen production and use, electrification of production processes, sustainable fuels and chemicals, and onshore and offshore energy infrastructure.

Developing technologies for recycling plastics, and processes for the sustainable design of materials. We also look at the design of the circular value chain, investigating the environmental impact of products and processes, in conjunction with the societal and economic impact.

Developing methods to measure and monitor particulate matter, nitrogen, and greenhouse gases. In doing so, we identify the sources and consequences of emissions, enabling companies and public authorities to take effective action.

With our Geological Survey of the Netherlands, we are in a unique position in terms of comprehensive knowledge of the subsurface. This enables us to provide valuable insights, data, analyses, and advice in this area. We are also working on underground energy and carbon storage techniques, and geothermal energy for heating greenhouses and homes.

Besides technological solutions, economic consequences and social aspects play at least as big a role in the energy and materials transition. We are committed to transparent policy and government direction, responsible entrepreneurship and strengthening citizen participation, to actively contribute individually or collectively to sustainable living, living and working in 2050.