Five Utrecht University researchers specialising in energy and sustainability have taken part in the Dutch House of Representatives’ round-table discussions. This direct impact on Dutch policy offers excellent opportunities to bring academic value to the debate about the climate. Dr Sanne Akerboom shared her knowledge about public support for energy transition; Prof Gert Jan Kramer commented on his review of the Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency‘s (PBL) calculations of the effects of the Climate Agreement; Prof Wilfried van Sark looked at the possibilities of solar panels, Prof Ernst Worrell stressed the need for rapid action in improving the sustainability of industrial energy consumption and Prof Hens Runhaar called for concrete agreements and undertakings in the agricultural sector.