Véronique Vasseur

The role of policy in the evolution of technological innovation systems for photovoltaic power in Germany and the Netherlands

In this paper, we examine the role of policy in the evolution of technological innovation system and diffusion of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels in Germany and the Netherlands. PV power development and diffusion have been actively supported in both countries; however, Germany has a well- developed technological innovation system and a successful industry, whereas the Netherlands has not. The focus of this paper is on the dynamic relationship between policy developments and technology innovation systems developments. Within both countries policy has changed over time but the German feed-in law provided an element of continuity which the Dutch policy lacked. The creation of a successful industry for PV in Germany can be attributed to the greater consistency and continuity of the German policies.

Solar Eclipse: The rise and "dusk" of the Dutch PV Innovation System

In this paper, we take the theoretical perspective of innovation system dynamics and apply this to Photovoltaic (PV) solar energy technology in the Netherlands. The history of the development of the PV innovation system is analysed in terms of seven key processes that are essential for the build-up of innovation systems. We show that large fluctuations are present in the processes related to guidance of the search and market formation. Surprisingly, entrepreneurial activities are not too much affected by fluctuating market formation activities. We relate this to market formation in neighbouring countries and discuss the implications for policy making.