Monitoring based on the logical framework approach: the energy use of dwellings in the Netherlands

Panel: Panel 5. Evaluation and monitoring

Authors:
Geert Thijssen, SenterNovem
Edwin Marquart, SenterNovem
Carmen Heinze, SenterNovem
Bert van Engelenburg, Bureau Onderwerg

Abstract

The Dutch government wants to achieve its energy policy goals by increasing the use of energy saving techniques like insulation, high-efficiency heating-systems and also by increasing the gas price. Several policy instruments have been implemented and it is necessary to monitor their effects. Gas consumption, however, is also affected by other factors, like the number of dwellings and the age of inhabitants and this complicates monitoring. The logical framework approach promised to be a useful tool in setting up a consistent and practical monitoring report of energy use of dwellings in the Netherlands. Central question of this paper is: Can the Logical Framework Approach (LFA) be used to establish an effective plan for monitoring the effects of energy policies on the consumption of gas by dwellings? Related questions were: Which effects should be measured, which indicators should be used for the effects, how are the indicators related, and if the target values are not met, what are the reasons for the divergence? The LFA was applied, where the overall policy objectives, the project purpose, results, activities, assumptions and their causal relationships were systematically analysed. The study demonstrates that the LFA can be used to establish an effective plan for monitoring the effects of energy policies. Furthermore, our experience leads us to believe that the method can be widely used to set up other policy monitoring plans. Specifically, information should be gathered related to the target values and the use of policy instruments. Also information on an intermediate level is needed to describe the results of the policy instruments and other uncontrolled factors.