This research investigates the emergence of regulatory voids in the diffusion stage of technological transitions, specifically in the context of hydrogen adoption in the Netherlands. The study explores the conceptual background of regulatory voids, identifies their characteristics, and assesses theoretical approaches to mitigating them. A case study on the hydrogen transition, supported by 20 stakeholder interviews, provides empirical insights into regulatory challenges and strategies for overcoming them and answer the main question:

“How can regulatory voids be adequately addressed concerning developing technologies related to hydrogen adoption in the Netherlands?”

Regulatory voids most critically emerge in the diffusion stage of technological transitions when mature technologies struggle to align with existing regulations. This misalignment creates delays in adoption and fragmented regulations. Within this stage, the regulatory void can be defined as the following: “when existing regulations fail to align with the requirements of a mature technology. Rather than an absence of regulation, these voids arise from outdated, fragmented, misaligned, or inconsistent rules and standards; leading to uncertainty, market barriers, and delays in technology deployment.”

The institutional theory is examined as a viable approach to addressing regulatory voids, emphasizing the interplay between regulatory, normative, and cultural-cognitive processes. These elements collectively support the establishment of adaptive regulations, enabling smoother technology integration. A case study and interviews highlight two critical regulatory voids in the hydrogen transition:
1. Void market development: arises due to an absence of demand incentives, leading to underutilization of hydrogen technologies despite their technical readiness.
2. Void infrastructure development: stems from delays in creating hydrogen transport networks, hindering industry growth. The study identifies bottlenecks, such as the delayed Delta Rhine Corridor (DRC), which prevents hydrogen supply chain integration across borders.

Strategies for addressing these regulatory voids include resource allocation across the supply chain, creating trust and transparency between stakeholders, strengthening public-private partnerships, clarifying regulatory frameworks, and enabling economies of scale. Infrastructure-related solutions involve developing European standards, allowing alternative transportation methods, resolving principal-agent issues in government agencies, and coordinating to facilitate cross-border hydrogen distribution. The research outlines overarching themes for addressing regulatory voids, including mission-driven approaches, alignment of economic and environmental objectives, and the facilitation of scalable technological development. The study finds that the absence of clear regulatory pathways hampers industry investment, highlighting the need for stable and predictable frameworks that minimize uncertainty.
The hydrogen transition provides valuable lessons for mitigating regulatory voids in other sectors. Trust and legitimacy among stakeholders are crucial for effective decision-making and regulatory coherence. Clear yet adaptable regulations ensure stability while accommodating evolving technologies. Regulator guidance in setting long-term goals and conditions with industry needs must balance transition processes. Enabling scalability during the diffusion stage allows continuous development cycles, accelerating transition progress.

In conclusion, addressing regulatory voids requires a structured approach that combines institutional legitimacy, adaptive regulations, and collaborative governance. By encouraging trust, regulatory clarity, and coordinated market incentives, stakeholders can facilitate the effective adoption of emerging technologies, ensuring that regulatory conditions evolve in tandem with technological advancements.