Dutch government proposes faster expansion of electricity grid

The Dutch government aims to accelerate the expansion of the national electricity grid by eliminating bureaucratic obstacles that can reportedly delay projects for up to 18 months. Climate Minister Sophie Hermans (VVD) has sent a proposal to the Raad van State (Council of State) seeking to remove legal barriers to preliminary site investigations.

Currently, landowners can delay energy infrastructure projects by refusing access for preparatory studies, such as soil or ground measurements. Under Hermans’ proposal, these investigations would become mandatory, overriding landowner objections. According to the ministry, this measure could save anywhere from two months to 18 months in project delays.

“These lengthy procedures must be addressed,” Hermans said. “Without electricity, we cannot expand residential areas or allow businesses to grow. This process must be faster, and this proposal is a first step.” The minister expects the proposed changes to take effect by mid-2026.

The proposal introduces a compulsory access requirement for net operators, allowing them to conduct surveys and other preparatory work without the need for landowner approval. The government argues that these studies are typically brief and cause minimal disruption to the land.

The policy is part of a broader initiative to accelerate grid expansion. Hermans also plans to designate power grid projects as matters of “overriding public interest,” limiting the ability to file objections and reducing legal procedures by up to 18 months.

The Council of State is expected to issue its opinion on the proposal in the coming months before the government finalizes the legislative changes.