Dutch ACM rules on solar park grid capacity dispute and places Kikker under stricter oversight

The Netherlands Authority for Consumers & Markets (ACM) ruled that grid operator Liander could refuse the request for transport capacity for Sunvest’s new solar park in Hazerswoude‑Dorp because of congestion on the regional network. While Liander was deemed entitled to deny the request, the ACM found the operator had not sufficiently explained why the capacity was unavailable and partially upheld Sunvest’s complaint. The regulator also noted that Liander is not obligated to publish detailed grid load data, though greater transparency could be beneficial, and applied the Electricity Act of 1998 to the case.

In a separate action, the ACM continued intensified supervision of energy supplier Kikker, which had previously faced financial difficulties. A recent audit revealed organisational and administrative shortcomings and an inability to provide reliable financial information, preventing the regulator from accurately assessing the company’s financial health. Kikker has been given a deadline to meet all legal requirements, with the risk of a licence revocation and activation of emergency supply procedures if it fails to comply. The regulator assured consumers that continuity of gas and electricity supply would be maintained.