The Netherlands is on the verge of massively increasing its renewable electricity capacity. It sets a target to increase that from 41.6GW in 2024 to a staggering 111.7GW by 2035. This growth projection represents a 9.4% CAGR (compound annual growth rate) over the next ten years. With robust government policies and a commitment to sustainability, the Dutch energy landscape is poised for a transformative shift towards greener sources.
The Netherlands’ commitment to achieving its lofty objectives is serious. To further this goal, it has created multiple programs, most recently the SDE++ programme, which is key in accelerating the deployment of renewable energy. The recently adopted National Energy and Climate Plan makes this initiative a reality. Combined, they represent the policy bedrock powering the nation’s renewable energy dreams. The Offshore Wind Roadmap 2030-2050 is the state’s primary strategic working document, aimed at increasing the state’s offshore wind capacity. This expansion alone will spur tremendous growth across the broader renewable energy market.
Dominance of Solar and Wind Energy
Solar photovoltaic (PV) and wind power lead the charge on the Netherlands’ renewable sector expansion. These two energy sources will be critical in achieving a climate-neutral power system. We want to do all of this by 2050. Today the government continues to double down on solar and wind. This is in line with global trends towards more sustainable power generation, ensuring continued and rapid growth in these industries.
As part of its wider hydrogen strategy, the Dutch government wants to develop at least 3-4GW of electrolysis capacity by 2030. This new initiative will directly help facilitate the integration of more renewable energy. It will make the Netherlands and Dutch projects leading in hydrogen technology. The ambitious country aims to phase out coal by 2028. This daring action is an important leap towards decarbonizing the sky.
Balancing Energy Sources and Nuclear Considerations
Natural gas will continue to play an essential role in the Netherlands’ energy mix. Realistically it will only stabilize and reach about 20GW in 2035. This important balancing source will be key to keeping the grid stable as we transition to a more sustainable energy system. Nuclear generation Nuclear capacity at the Borssele facility remains fixed at 0.4GW. In stark contrast, discussions are vibrantly alive in America about potential solutions to keep this capacity from retiring.
Plans for the construction of two new nuclear reactors at the Vogtle Electric Generating Plant are proceeding. It’s these reactors that will be central to the long-term low-carbon diversification strategy. As part of the Paris Climate Agreement, the Netherlands is moving to a more balanced energy portfolio. This means adopting the use of renewable and traditional energy sources.
Positive Outlook for Clean Energy
The Netherlands has a very bright clean energy future ahead. Powerful policy backing and sustained financial commitment are revitalizing the energy grid. The federal government’s smart, forward-looking embrace of flexibility technologies will make it much easier for variable, renewable energy sources to fit into our current infrastructure.