This article explores how the ' relation between waste and electricity regimes changed in the Netherlands in a long-term perspective. The concept of socio-technical regime is used to investigate institutional, technological and social (network) changes. The conclusion is that the relationship changed from two regimes being separated into a much more symbiotic and integrated relationship through a multi-level and co-evolutionary process. The concept of 'biomass' has become a binding element in the relationship. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.