Electricity in Netherlands in 2024
In 2024, the electricity consumption landscape in the Netherlands demonstrates a significant commitment to harnessing low-carbon energy sources, which make up more than half of the country's electricity generation. Specifically, low-carbon energy accounts for approximately 54% of the total electricity generated, with a substantial contribution coming from wind and solar power, producing around 27% and 18% respectively. Biofuels contribute nearly 6%, and nuclear energy adds a modest 3% to the overall mix. Meanwhile, fossil fuels account for roughly 46% of electricity generation, with gas as the dominant source, providing 36%, and coal making up the remaining 7%. This balance highlights the ongoing transition toward cleaner energy, although there remains a notable reliance on fossil fuels.
Suggestions
To bolster its low-carbon electricity generation further, the Netherlands can expand its existing wind and solar infrastructure, as these sources are already well-established and furnish significant contributions to the energy mix. Learning from Denmark's exemplary wind energy generation, which covers more than half of its electricity needs, the Netherlands can aim to enhance its wind energy capacity. Additionally, leveraging nuclear energy, lessons from France, Slovakia, and Finland, where nuclear energy forms a significant part of their low-carbon electricity, could provide a stable and reliable energy source to complement intermittent renewables. Embracing an energy strategy that enhances these clean energy sources could help the Netherlands minimize reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to a reduction in climate change impacts and air pollution.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in the Netherlands illustrates consistent growth in wind and solar power in recent years. For instance, between 2015 and 2024, wind energy saw notable increases, with substantial increments each year, particularly 7.5 TWh in 2023. Similarly, solar energy has witnessed remarkable growth, especially with significant yearly increments from 2018 onwards. Conversely, the nuclear sector experienced fluctuations, with both declines and increases, as seen in the late 1990s and mid-2010s, reflecting a complex relationship with nuclear power generation. Despite the challenges, the Netherlands' commitment to expanding wind and solar energy has yielded positive results, establishing a robust foundation for further growth in low-carbon electricity.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.