Peak hours could become more expensive from 2029
Netbeheer Nederland wants households to pay more for electricity use during busy hours, but the ACM still has to assess the proposal.
From 2029, households could face time-dependent network charges. The proposal is intended to shift electricity use to quieter hours, but the precise charges have not yet been set.
Netbeheer Nederland has submitted a proposal to the Authority for Consumers & Markets to make transport charges for small-scale consumers dependent on both volume and time of use. Small-scale consumers include households and other connections of up to a maximum of 3x80 amps.
Under the proposal, around two-thirds of the transport charge would depend on volume and time. The remaining part would continue to be linked to the capacity of the connection. This concerns network operator costs, not directly the market price of electricity or energy tax.
The ACM still has to assess the proposal and will then organise a consultation. The regulator expects time- and volume-dependent charges could be introduced in 2029. That is therefore a timetable, not a final decision.
The idea is that electricity use during busy hours becomes more expensive, while use at quieter times becomes cheaper. For example, an electric car could be charged in the middle of the day or at night. The aim is to use the grid more evenly, reducing the need for new cables and transformer stations in the short term.
The reason is the growing strain on the electricity grid. The combination of heat pumps, electric cars, solar panels and new homes in particular is increasing demand for grid capacity. A pricing incentive can shift some of that demand, but it will not immediately resolve physical shortages.
For households, the financial effect will depend on their consumption pattern and the final tariff structure. Those who use a lot of electricity during peak hours could pay more; those who can shift their consumption could potentially save money. The government cites research indicating that around 60 per cent of households could pay less as a result of the plan, but that is a calculation, not a guarantee for individual households.
The measure will also affect businesses with smaller connections, landlords and providers of charging solutions. They may need to invest in smart controls or storage. At the same time, grid expansion and the granting of permits will remain necessary, because not all consumption can be shifted to other hours.
One story, several perspectives
What is established
- Netbeheer Nederland has submitted a proposal for time- and volume-dependent network charges.
- The ACM still has to assess the proposal and expects possible introduction in 2029.
- The proposal concerns grid transport costs, not the full energy bill.
Left
Arguments A change in tariffs must not mean that households unable to shift their consumption, for example because of working hours or a poorly insulated home, receive the heaviest bill. Network operators and the government should first strengthen the infrastructure and protect vulnerable households.
Values Affordability, equal access to energy and protection against unequal consequences.
Consequences More public funding or targeted compensation may be needed, but that shifts costs to taxpayers or future generations.
Centre
Arguments A time-based signal can be a useful part of a broader approach, provided the ACM assesses the effects and households are given time to adjust their consumption. Grid expansion remains necessary; tariffs are not a substitute for investment.
Values Efficiency, feasibility and a balanced distribution of costs.
Consequences A gradual introduction with evaluations could limit grid congestion without suddenly saddling households with unpredictable bills.
Right
Arguments Those who place a heavy burden on the grid at busy times should pay more for the additional capacity required. A market incentive can accelerate innovation in smart charging points, batteries and energy management without new general subsidies.
Values Individual responsibility, cost allocation and room for entrepreneurship.
Consequences The system could become more efficient, but households and small businesses with little flexibility could face higher costs.
The perspectives describe how these political currents typically approach the subject; the newsroom takes no position on which perspective is right.
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The status of the plan, the proposed tariff distribution and the role of the ACM have been confirmed by primary sources. Possible effects on households are described as a scenario, not as a certain outcome.
- confirmed Netbeheer Nederland has submitted a proposal for volume- and time-dependent charges. — The ACM describes the proposal on its own website. source
- confirmed Around two-thirds of the transport charge would become dependent on volume and time. — This is stated in the ACM's explanatory document. source
- confirmed The ACM expects possible introduction in 2029. — The ACM mentions 2029 as an expectation, not as a confirmed year of introduction. source
Editor's note
The introduction in 2029 is not yet final. It concerns a proposal from Netbeheer Nederland that the ACM still has to assess; individual savings are not guaranteed.Sources
More on this in Dutch media
- Trouw — „nettarieven stroomnet”
- RTL Nieuws — „nettarieven stroomnet”
- FD — „nettarieven stroomnet”