EZK publishes Energy Main Structure Program: government will direct locations for large batteries
Minister Jetten for Climate & Energy recently announced the final Program Energy Main Structure (PEH). and the associated implementation agenda published. This program focuses on spatial policy for energy infrastructure in the Netherlands until 2050. The documents follow the goals set in the National Energy System Plan. For energy storage developers, there are a number of important implications.
What does the PEH mean for energy storage?
The PEH provides a long-term vision for the development of a sustainable energy system and establishes the structuring choices for the Netherlands' main energy infrastructure. Among other things, it identifies spatial priorities for high-voltage lines, power generation, electrolysis, battery storage and other renewable energy technologies.
For developers of energy storage projects, the PEH presents both opportunities and challenges. The program states that significant amounts of batteries are needed to ensure security of supply in an increasingly decentralized energy system. Because of the large space requirements of these system batteries, the program proposes strategic planning to locate large-scale battery projects in appropriate locations where they are both socially and energetically desirable.
Spatial policy framework for batteries
In order to guide the locations of large-scale battery projects, a spatial policy framework will be drawn up by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate (EZK) in cooperation with the Ministry of the Interior (BZK), the Interprovincial Consultation (IPO), Association of Dutch Municipalities (VNG), RVO and TenneT. This framework will contain preconditions and authorities for the assessment of applications for large system batteries with a capacity of 100 MW or more. The aim is to ensure that these are realized in the right locations and under the right conditions.
For developers of large-scale battery projects, this means that in the future they will have to consider the spatial policy framework when planning and submitting project proposals. In the course of this year, more information will be released on the boundary conditions and location criteria set by the government and other stakeholders. In the process, TenneT will publish a grid analysis showing at which high-voltage substations the realization of large-scale batteries is desirable.
Energy Storage NL has been in discussions with EZK for some time about a policy framework. Our main call is to map out at the substation level how much grid capacity is available in the various grid regions. In addition, we call for discussions with the industry about the practical feasibility of a simpler licensing process. On this subject we previously wrote a position paper based on a survey of our members.
Electrolysis and molecule storage
In addition to focusing on batteries, the PEH also focuses on large-scale electrolysis. These, like batteries, are considered of national importance because of their impact on the electricity and gas grid and their function in balancing the national energy system. The PEH sets an ambitious goal of 4 gigawatts of electrolyser capacity by 2030. The development of these electrolysers focuses on locations near offshore wind and close to the industry that will use the hydrogen.
Around underground energy storage, the program announces policies for additional site choices for increasing underground energy storage capacity. This could include hydrogen, but also other forms such as compressed air storage. Actions on this need further elaboration.
Progress on the various actions from the Energy Master Plan will be reported to the House of Representatives during 2024. ESNL monitors these developments and informs members on an ongoing basis.
Questions or comments following this post? Please contact us at info@energystoragenl.nl
