Ruimte & Maatschappij

Abstract

Strategic energy planning is emerging as a new field, aiming to integrate the domains of energy systems and spatial planning. Integration is necessary as the energy system will exert a significant structuring influence on spatial developments in the coming decades. Yet, current practice insufficiently addresses the strategic issues in het regional spatial energy system (RSES). In this article we claim that this is because the RSES exhibits characteristics of a wicked problem, and that hence alternative approaches, such as research through designing, are required to deal with this wickedness.

Using the ten principles defined by Rittler and Webber we demonstrate how wickedness manifests itself in the RSES. Among other things, we show how multiple (conflicting) problem definitions are possible in the RSES, that the number of possible solutions is not finite, and no inherently right or wrong solutions exist in the RSES. In order to deal with the wickedness of the RSES different strategies are necessary, including collaborative approaches such as research through designing. Using the pilot study ‘Energy clusters’ we show how research through designing helps in dealing with wickedness in the RSES of Zuid-Holland. Here research through design proves to be a flexible method helping participants to deal with conflicting perspectives and interests, making solutions visual and therefore tangible and testable, and providing insight into new strategic choices within the RSES.

We conclude that the RSES show typical characteristics of a wicked problem and that research through designing offers ways to explore strategic choices, despite the wicked nature of the RSES. We call upon the expansion of the field of strategic energy planning and the use of design capabilities in order to challenge established interests, bring new voices to the front, and build new coalitions in order to determine together which spatial development we wish to pursue.

Keywords: Strategic energy planning wicked problems, research through designing, energy system, infrastructure, spatial planning, Zuid-Holland, Strategic energy planning, wicked problems

How to Cite:

van der Wal, L. & Vollbrandt, J., (2026) “How the power of design will help us in the wickedness of energy planning - The case of the Regional Spatial Energy System of Zuid-Holland”, Ruimte & Maatschappij 18(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.21825/renm.96264