Grid operators work to improve understanding of grid capacity

Grid operators are working to improve insight into available grid capacity and queues per station in the Netherlands. So writes outgoing Minister Rob Jetten for Climate & Energy in response to parliamentary questions from Kröger (PvdA-GL) and Erkens (VVD) on the recent message that energy hubs can be realized to a limited extent due to grid congestion. There is a great need among companies and other connected parties for public data on the grid situation in specific regions and substations. Energy Storage NL repeatedly called for more insight into the extent of grid congestion, for example in the National Energy Storage Action Plan 2023.

Detailed information about the situation at the can help policymakers address problems in a targeted way, but also plays a role in preventing unrealistic requests by companies for the purpose of obtaining information. Because little is shared at the front end about the possibilities at a site, companies in some cases make more requests for grid connections than necessary. This phenomenon, also known as "ghost requests" or "towel requests," distorts the picture of grid congestion and complicates the effective allocation of resources on the power grid.

By providing greater transparency about available grid capacity and queues, companies can make more informed decisions. This is expected to lead to a decrease in unrealistic requests and more efficient utilization of the energy grid. The grid operators' initiative to share this data is therefore an important measure to promote transparency and efficiency in the energy system. It will help not only in applying congestion management, but also in identifying areas where investments are most needed.

Sharing relevant data on grid capacity and queues is therefore not only a response to current challenges, but also a long-awaited step for the Dutch energy storage sector. By sharing information and promoting transparency, energy storage can better contribute to a future flexible energy system ready for the demands and challenges of energy transition.

The grid operators will realize their plans by using the existing power grid capacity map update and refine. The next update is anticipated in the second quarter of this year, ESNL will communicate about this by then.

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