Waiting list for all requests for power connections
We are using more and more electricity at the same time. This threatens to overload the power grid. This problem is also known as grid congestion. Many regions in the Netherlands are already experiencing grid congestion, including South Holland. In Wassenaar, too, we are reaching the limits of the current power grid.
This means that there is insufficient capacity available on the grid to connect additional or new applications immediately. Therefore, choices must be made about the order in which applications are connected or expanded. The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) has amended the national regulations for this purpose. The social prioritization framework describes exactly what the new prioritization list looks like.
Choosing based on social importance
In order to distribute the limited capacity on the electricity grid as effectively as possible, from July 1, 2026, capacity will be distributed in accordance with the ACM's social prioritization framework.
There are three categories.
- Projects that directly create space on the electricity grid, such as energy storage via battery systems, are given the highest priority. This is because they enable more parties to use the electricity grid.
- Projects that are essential to national security, such as security services, healthcare, railways, air traffic, waterways, water management, emergency services, defense, and the police.
- Projects that are considered basic needs. These include housing, education, public transport, waste management, heat supply, and housing needs.
The amended rules affect residents and SMEs in Wassenaar who want to upgrade their electricity connection or apply for a new connection. The rules apply immediately to large companies. For residents and SMEs, there is a transition period until July 1, 2026.
What does this mean for residents?
From July 1, 2026, residents' applications will no longer be automatically approved for things such as faster charging of electric cars at home or making homes natural gas-free. A waiting period will apply for these applications. How long this will be depends on the available grid capacity at that time.
What does this mean for SMEs?
From July 1, 2026, applications from small consumers, including SMEs, will be placed on a waiting list together with those from large companies in areas where there is grid congestion. SMEs will not be given social priority. This also applies to applications for public charging stations.
How do I know what type of connection I have and when I need to upgrade my connection?
Small consumers are defined as homes and smaller businesses (commercial premises, retail spaces, etc.) that have an electricity connection ranging from 1x25 amps to a maximum of 3x80 amps. There are various ways to find out your connection type. For example, your connection type is included in your energy contract, or you can request this information via the Liander website.
Next, you will want to know whether you need a heavier connection for sustainability measures (e.g., electric cooking facilities, charging station, heat pump) or for the expansion of your home or business premises. To find out, you can consult a certified installer, the party providing the service, or the Liander website. There are also costs associated with upgrading your connection. These are clearly listed on the Liander website.
What are the network operators doing about this situation?
The grid operator Liander is working hard to reinforce and expand the overloaded power grid. It is expected that the grid operators will have completed the expansions by around 2035 at the earliest.
What does Wassenaar do?
The municipality continues to work closely with network operator Liander to minimize the impact of network congestion as much as possible.
Alderman Koetsier: “We understand that this can cause uncertainty for residents and businesses. No one wants delays in making their home more sustainable or starting a construction project. That is why we will continue to work closely with Liander on network expansion by searching for a location for the construction of a new necessary substation in Wassenaar and by jointly addressing network reinforcement. We are fully committed to making Wassenaar future-proof."
National rules, implementation by Liander
The municipality does not determine these rules. The nationally determined rules are implemented by Liander. Municipalities remain in dialogue with the network operator about the impact and progress of network expansions and provide support where possible.
Learn more
- Frequently asked questions can be found on the Liander website.
- For questions about connections, applications, and how the waiting list works, please contact Liander.
- For more information, please visit the Wassenaar municipality website.