Grid operator warns overload in Utrecht, Gelderland, Flevoland could stop new homes

TenneT says the high-voltage electricity network in the provinces of Utrecht, Gelderland, and Flevoland is at full capacity. Without urgent intervention, new housing projects and companies may no longer be able to secure connections later this year. The grid operator plans to consult with national and local authorities, regional network managers, and industry representatives on possible solutions.

TenneT’s warning was raised earlier in a parliamentary debate, where outgoing Climate and Energy Minister Sophie Hermans was defending this year’s budget. The VVD minister admitted that the grid operator’s outlook was “far less positive,” with “potentially major consequences for Flevoland, Gelderland, and particularly Utrecht.”

Hermans described TenneT’s warning as “deeply frustrating.” For years, measures have been in place to limit the impact of grid congestion, because the essential expansion is a long-term project. “Just a few months ago, it still looked like we were cautiously heading in the right direction.”

Hermans demands that TenneT undertake such significant measures only after “thorough assessment and calculations,” and that a “second opinion” be sought. She adds that any steps should still be taken “in full consultation” with the provinces and regional network managers.

Rising electricity demand during peak times has been recognized for some time. Yet TenneT says existing measures are not enough. “This puts such strain on our high-voltage cables and substations that the likelihood of widespread outages keeps growing,” the operator cautioned.

Should extra measures fall short, a connection stop may be implemented this summer for small users, such as households, SMEs, and housing developers. In practical terms, this could prevent a household from upgrading or modifying its existing grid connection. Whether they can add an electric car charger or an electric kitchen island would depend on the strength of their current connection.

Households already connected to the grid will retain their service. According to TenneT, the interventions are aimed at safeguarding the reliability of the electricity supply. “It hasn’t reached that point yet,” a TenneT spokesperson said. “We are making every effort to avoid a connection stop.”

Gelderland says it is “deeply alarmed” by TenneT’s warning. “All measures must be taken to ensure development in Gelderland continues,” the province emphasized.

Gelderland said that a connection freeze could have “disastrous consequences for the major collective challenges we are tackling with the national government, municipalities, businesses, and social partners.” The province cautioned that initiatives like building new homes and making houses and companies more sustainable could be jeopardized. “A full connection stop would make these objectives unattainable. That is unacceptable.”

Flevoland said it is alarmed by the reports. The province stressed that the need for action is “undeniable and immediate.”

Harold Hofstra, the province’s energy commissioner, said, “TenneT’s threatened connection freeze sends a clear message: our energy system can no longer keep pace with growth and the transition to sustainability. That is why we must now utilize the technical solutions already available in Flevoland, like adjustable power generation.”