Grid congestion: what is it and how to solve it?
What's grid congestion?
Grid congestion means that the power grid is too full, so no electricity can pass through it temporarily. More and more people have solar panels, so we generate more energy ourselves. Sometimes, we feed in even more electricity than is needed. At other moments, there's a high demand for electricity. For example, for heat pumps that consume a lot during peak moments. The current power grid isn't made for this new situation, which means we sometimes can't supply or feed in extra energy.
Why is this a problem?
Due to grid congestion, you can't always feed in energy with your solar panels. Or the demand for energy is too high, so your heat pump or charging station works less well than usual. New energy projects like solar and wind parks also have to wait, because the connection isn't possible. This can take years sometimes, which slows down the energy transition.
How is the government handling this?
Congestion management
Companies are adjusting their energy consumption to off-peak moments and receive a compensation for that. This keeps the grid stable and provides space for new connections.
A larger power grid
The Dutch Cabinet plans to invest in expanding the electricity grid. It will take about 10 years before the power grid has enough space. That's because of complicated permits and long construction times.
Energy hubs and flexibility
Companies share energy via hubs or use batteries. This spreads out the high demand, which lowers the risk of grid congestion.
What does this mean for you?
Do you have solar panels or a heat pump? Move your consumption to off-peak moments on the grid. That way, you help with a less busy power grid and use your energy in a smart way.
Do you want to connect a solar panel or heat pump? Be sure to check the options in your region. That way, you'll know when there's time and space for new connections.
This way, you'll stay prepared
At Coolblue Energy, we help you to gain insight into your energy consumption and how flexibly you use the power grid. With a dynamic energy contract, you can make smart use of affordable energy. That way, you help to make the grid less busy and you save on your energy costs.
