Regional Measures Against Overloaded Power Grid Begin to Work

Minister Hermans, Climate and Green Growth: “Dutch households, businesses, and organizations are becoming more sustainable at a rapid pace. This is good news for the energy transition and makes the Netherlands less dependent on foreign sources, but it also puts significant pressure on the power grid. It is encouraging to see that the effects of our joint efforts with provinces and grid operators are becoming visible. We are not there yet, but this gives confidence that the approach works and motivates us to continue.”

These initial calculations show that the regional measures are effective. Generators and batteries are being deployed, and combined heat and power plants are being kept open longer. Additionally, the heavier loading of the power grid and complex technical solutions contribute to this. Extra attention is needed for businesses to handle the power grid more flexibly through new contracts.

Meanwhile, work is underway on expanding the power grid. The section of the Dutch power grid in Utrecht, Gelderland, and Flevoland is unique because it is strongly interconnected. In Gelderland and Flevoland, those grid expansions are scheduled to be completed by 2030. The new calculations show that the overload of the power grid in those provinces will decrease by then. This will create space to gradually connect parties from the waiting list. In Utrecht, the expansion of the power grid is taking longer than expected. As a result, peaks on the power grid will need to be managed until 2033. The overload will also increase somewhat further between 2029 and 2033. The measures taken in April 2024 remain urgently needed.

In addition to regional measures, national measures are also being worked on, encouraging households and small businesses to use the power grid more wisely. With an adjusted grid tariff, it will be cheaper to use electricity outside peak hours (4 PM - 9 PM). Smart devices can ensure that people at home automatically use the quieter (cheaper) moments on the power grid. These measures will start in 2028. Additionally, a plan is being developed to create more space and flexibility in the existing power grid in the short term.

The Ministry of KGG and grid operators continue to collaborate on these measures and monitor the effects to quickly adjust if necessary. Furthermore, new insights and measures will also be applied in other regions where possible.