Electricity in Netherlands in 2023/2024

In the Netherlands, from September 2023 to August 2024, the landscape of electricity consumption reveals a strong emphasis on low-carbon energy sources, which account for more than half of the electricity generated in the country. Within this category, wind power emerges as a leading force, contributing about 28% to the electricity mix, while solar energy provides about 19%. Biofuels and nuclear energy comprise smaller portions, with close to 5% and slightly less than 3% respectively. Despite this, fossil energy remains substantial, making up approximately 44% of total electricity consumption, with natural gas as the predominant source, contributing around 35%. Coal follows but represents only about 7% of the mix, indicating a country that still relies heavily on fossil fuels but is gradually shifting towards cleaner, more sustainable electricity options.

Suggestions

To further increase its low-carbon electricity generation, the Netherlands can look to expand its wind and solar capacities, given their already significant contributions. Considering Denmark's success, where wind power accounts for 59% of electricity, such expansion in wind energy could yield substantial gains. Additionally, integrating more nuclear energy into its electricity production could be advantageous. Observations from France, where nuclear power contributes a remarkable 67% of the electrical output, demonstrate the potential of nuclear energy to provide a substantial and stable low-carbon electricity supply. Countries like Belgium and Finland, which derive 35% and 38% respectively from nuclear energy, further illustrate feasible pathways for the Netherlands. Learning from these models, the Netherlands can strategically invest in both technological capabilities and supportive policies for wind, solar, and nuclear energy to substantially reduce fossil fuel reliance.

History

Historically, the Netherlands has seen a pivot towards low-carbon electricity primarily through wind and solar energy advancements. In the late 2010s and early 2020s, wind energy notably ramped up with increases of 2.4 TWh in 2017, 3.8 TWh in 2020, and an impressive 7.5 TWh in 2023. Solar energy followed suit with substantial annual increments, particularly a 5.8 TWh increase in 2022. However, the trajectory of nuclear energy has been less than ideal, experiencing a decline of 1.8 TWh in the late 1990s, with only modest recoveries in later years. This underlines a need for more robust investment in nuclear infrastructure to tap into its potential for providing reliable, large-scale low-carbon electricity. Despite these challenges, the commitment to expand wind and solar reflects a decisive move toward a cleaner energy future. By progressively adapting these lessons and experiences, the Netherlands can chart an effective path towards a sustainable electrical grid.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources