Companies in much of North Holland may face up to ten years on a waiting list for a heavier electricity grid connection, as announced by network operators Tennet and Liander this morning. New businesses cannot connect, and existing ones struggle to become more sustainable.
The electricity grid is so overloaded that operators fear overloading by 2026, leading to potential power outages affecting businesses and households. The congestion stems from increased demand due to business and housing expansion, companies switching from gas to electricity, and households using more electricity for heat pumps and electric vehicles.
Network operators urge ‘peak avoidance,’ asking users to reduce consumption during peak hours, but responses have been insufficient. Tennet advises businesses in North Holland not to switch from gas for now, as this could reduce electricity production.
A plan is being developed to address the most severe impacts of grid congestion in the province, but decade-long waitlists appear likely.
Source: NOS