Netherlands power grid capacity crunch forces early connection requests

The Dutch high‑voltage grid, managed by TenneT, has reached its transport‑capacity limits in the Flevoland, Gelderland and Utrecht regions, with an active connection stop in parts of Utrecht. To avoid delays in new housing and energy‑saving projects, municipalities such as Lochem and Achtkarspelen urge developers, residents and businesses to submit connection requests to grid operator Liander before 1 July 2026.

From that date Liander must apply the new priority framework set by the Authority for Consumers & Markets (ACM). Congestion‑relief measures like battery storage receive top priority, while societal functions (hospitals, schools) outrank residential builds. New or heavier connections—required for heat pumps, electric vehicle chargers, solar panels, or electric cooking—will be placed on a waiting list after the deadline, potentially lengthening approval times for both households and small enterprises.

Applicants are advised to assess their future electricity needs with qualified installers and to provide detailed project information (number of dwellings, location, expected start, electricity demand) early in the planning phase. Early submissions aim to prevent the risk of project stalls or complete stoppages caused by the network’s congestion.