Business Daily What’s gone wrong with the Dutch power supply?
Nov 10, 2025
Kies-Jan Rameau, CEO of Eneco and expert in energy distribution, discusses the Dutch grid's challenges amid a rapid shift to renewables. He highlights how the surge in electric vehicles and solar installations is straining local networks. Rameau explains the delicate balance of supply and demand, revealing the impacts of curtailing wind and solar energy. With thousands on waiting lists for connections, he shares insights on virtual power plants and the urgent need for grid reinforcement to prevent economic fallout and maintain competitiveness.
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Rapid Electrification Outpaced Grid Design
- The Netherlands electrified quickly with massive uptake of EVs, solar and heat pumps.
- Rapid distributed renewables have stressed a grid designed for few big power plants.
Lidl's Electric Truck Transition
- Lidl replaced most of a diesel truck fleet with 17 electric lorries and aims for a full transition.
- Their depot highlights how businesses need large, reliable grid connections for decarbonisation.
Distributed Renewables Create Edge Bottlenecks
- Solar and wind inject power at grid edges where lines are small, creating bottlenecks.
- Huge PV capacity means sunny days can produce far more than national demand, forcing curtailment.