The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) has conducted a biannual assessment of system operators' investment plans, noting significant improvements in how these operators justify their required investments. However, ACM has identified several shortcomings that need to be addressed.

System operators anticipate needing over 200 billion euros for investments in grid and natural-gas networks over the next few years. ACM suggests that this amount could be reduced if clearer decisions are made by the Dutch government and local authorities regarding the future energy system.

According to the Dutch Energy Act, ACM is required to assess these investment plans every two years. The need for substantial expansion and modification of grids is driven by the energy transition and efforts to alleviate grid congestion. Despite the necessity of these investments, ACM has observed delays in the completion of planned works due to prolonged licensing processes and shortages of staff and materials.

ACM emphasizes the importance of utilizing existing grids more efficiently. The authority points out that system operators have not sufficiently considered smart solutions that could minimize the need for additional investments. By promoting alternative transmission rights and energy hubs, costs could be reduced while maximizing the efficiency of current infrastructure.

In a letter to the Dutch Minister of Climate Policy and Green Growth, ACM will highlight the need for decisive political choices to avoid unnecessary costs and overinvestment in the long term. While the quality of investment plans from major operators has improved, ACM has deemed the plans from smaller regional operators as insufficient, imposing a binding course of conduct on them to ensure compliance with quality standards.

For the first time, ACM will publish its assessment letters to system operators, providing transparency on how it reached its conclusions. Additionally, ACM is launching a public consultation to gather insights from stakeholders and experts to refine its assessment framework for the 2028 investment plans.