Netherlands increases coal power production amid energy shifts

Coal-fired power plants in the Netherlands have significantly increased energy production, generating 6.9 TWh by mid-August. This output level is comparable to the total production recorded for the entire year of 2024, according to data from the Nationaal Energiedashboard.

Several economic and technical factors have driven this shift away from green energy narratives. High natural gas prices have made coal production more economically viable. Additionally, intermittent renewable sources like wind and solar have been unable to meet total demand during certain periods.

Regional demand has also played a critical role. Belgium has increased its electricity imports from the Netherlands due to maintenance work being conducted on two of its large nuclear reactors. Experts suggest that the increased use of coal allows for the saving of approximately 60 million cubic meters of natural gas per week, which can then be diverted to storage for future use.