What to do about grid congestion?

Grid reinforcement and infrastructure expansion

One of the most immediate solutions to grid congestion is strengthening and expanding the electricity grid. This means upgrading existing infrastructure, such as transformers and cables, so the network can handle greater capacity. While this is a costly and time-consuming option, it ensures a more stable and robust energy network in the long run.

In addition, extensive grid expansion plans are underway in the four provinces where we operate (Drenthe, Groningen, Friesland, and Noord-Holland Noord). These projects include significant capacity increases, with a clear schedule for the extensive work and an expected shutdown in the coming years. This will significantly improve the long-term reliability and stability of the grid.

Smart technologies and grid management

For grid operators:
Grid operators play a crucial role in efficiently managing the electricity grid. Using smart technologies—such as automated grid management and monitoring systems supported by data analytics and artificial intelligence—they can more accurately predict and manage energy demand and supply. This allows them to better manage peak demand, for example, by temporarily slowing down charging stations for electric cars during peak hours, thus limiting congestion.

For individual companies:
Businesses can also actively contribute to alleviating grid congestion. By restructuring business processes and optimizing energy consumption, for example, by reducing peaks and shifting intensive energy use to off-peak hours, the load on the grid can be significantly reduced. We also offer examples and best practices to help businesses implement these measures.

Decentralized energy storage

Decentralized energy storage, such as home batteries and neighborhood batteries, can help relieve the burden on the electricity grid. When a surplus of energy is generated, for example, by solar panels, this energy can be stored instead of being sent directly back to the grid. At times of high demand, the stored energy can be released. This reduces peak loads on the grid and mitigates the risk of congestion.

Flexibility services

Flexibility services are mechanisms that allow energy users to adjust their electricity demand based on energy availability on the grid. This can be done through dynamic pricing or through agreements where large consumers, such as factories, temporarily reduce their energy consumption during peak hours. Flexibility services reduce the strain on the grid, contributing to a more stable network.

More information

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