To evaluate the expression \((2^{-2})^{-2}\), we can use the property of exponents that states \((a^m)^n = a^{m \cdot n}\).
Applying this property:
\[ (2^{-2})^{-2} = 2^{-2 \cdot -2} = 2^{4} \]
Now, calculate \(2^4\):
\[ 2^4 = 16 \]
Thus, the value of the expression \((2^{-2})^{-2}\) is \(16\).
The correct answer is D. 16.