A values-based approach to energy controversies: Value-sensitive design applied to the Groningen gas controversy in the Netherlands. (November 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mouter, Niek; de Geest, Auke; Doorn, Neelke
• Is Part Of: Energy policy. Volume 122(2018)
• Page Start: 639
• Page End: 648
• Publication Date: 2018-11
• Subjects: Energy controversy -- Value-sensitive design -- Values hierarchy -- Groningen gas case -- Social acceptance; Energy policy -- Periodicals; Politique énergétique -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 333.79
• DOI: 10.1016/j.enpol.2018.08.020
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0301-4215

Abstract

Abstract: Many energy cases suffer from social opposition. It is increasingly asserted that paying due attention to the moral values involved in controversial energy cases may increase social acceptance. Value-sensitive design (VSD) has been recommended as a promising approach for addressing moral values in controversial energy cases. This paper aims to empirically explore the applicability of VSD in controversial energy cases by investigating the extent to which it is possible to identify the relevant values, norms and design requirements in the Groningen gas controversy (the Netherlands) using values hierarchies. It was found in this case that the relevant values, norms and design requirements could be retrieved, but that two conditions need to be fulfilled to avoid underexposure of relevant values. Firstly, data should be collected using a variety of data sources. Secondly, these sources should be analyzed through both top-down approaches and bottom-up approaches. We find that 'Safety' is a critical value in the Groningen case, while other critical values are related to securing 'Procedural Justice'. Strikingly, the important procedural values 'Trust' and 'Honesty' did not translate into concrete policies. Policy makers can use values hierarchies to address moral values in energy cases and to translate these values into concrete measures. Highlights: We explore the applicability of Value-Sensitive Design in the Groningen gas case. VSD is applicable on the condition that data is collected from different sources. Analyzing data with a top-down and bottom-up approach avoids underexposure of values. Safety and Procedural Justice are the most critical values in the Groningen case. We advise continued use of VSD as it provides valuable insights on embedding values.