Net congestion in the Netherlands spurs bidirectional car‑sharing trial

A growing net‑congestion problem is hampering Dutch businesses, with a Berenschot survey finding that 65 % of companies see it as a barrier to operations and 90 % of firms in the energy and utilities sector reporting the same. The study warns that congestion is a structural challenge that threatens economic growth and calls for faster, smarter use of the electricity system.

One innovative response is the deployment of bidirectional car‑sharing vehicles by MyWheels in Utrecht and Eindhoven. These cars can act as mobile batteries, feeding power back to the grid during peak periods while still serving as shared transport. The pilot currently includes about 350 vehicles, with plans to expand to roughly 550 by year‑end. Research by Haskoning and MyWheels suggests that such vehicles can reduce grid pressure and provide a “double benefit” by lowering private car ownership.

Realising the concept requires investment in suitable charging stations and new contract models, such as time‑dependent tariffs and flexible contracts. Industry experts say flexibility and smarter demand‑side management are essential to avoid costly grid expansions and to turn congestion into a competitive advantage.