In 2024, the Netherlands presents an interesting mix of electricity sources, as more than half of its electricity consumption is derived from low-carbon sources. Specifically, about 54% originates from clean energies such as wind, solar, biofuels, and nuclear. Wind power alone contributes to slightly more than a quarter of the total energy mix, while solar power accounts for nearly 18%. Biofuel and nuclear generation complete the low-carbon profile with about 6% and 3% respectively. On the other hand, fossil fuels remain significant, with natural gas supplying approximately 36% and coal contributing close to 7%. Although the share of low-carbon electricity is commendable, fossil fuel consumption still represents almost half of the energy mix, highlighting room for deeper transitions to cleaner alternatives.
Is Electricity Growing in Netherlands?
Regarding overall electricity consumption, the Netherlands shows a decline in per capita usage from the previous high observed in 2008. In 2024, the average Dutch citizen consumed around 6760 kWh per year, which marks a reduction of 675 kWh per person compared to the 2008 record of 7435 kWh. However, the story for low-carbon electricity is more positive, with 2024 seeing a new record in generation at 3631 kWh per person, up from the previous year's figure by nearly 200 kWh. This increase in clean energy signifies a promising trend towards sustainability, though the overall decline in total electricity consumption may be concerning in the context of the electrification needs driven by technological advancements and the need to combat climate change.
Suggestions
To further boost low-carbon electricity generation, expanding wind and solar energy infrastructure is a strategic approach for the Netherlands, capitalizing on technologies that already have a significant footprint in the country. Observing neighboring countries, the Netherlands can also take cues from Denmark's impressive 52% of electricity from wind energy and consider bolstering nuclear capacity, as exemplified by Belgium's achievement of over a third of electricity from nuclear power. Investing in a balanced combination of expanded wind, solar, and nuclear capacities could not only enhance energy security but also accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels.
History
The historical progression of low-carbon electricity in the Netherlands shows meaningful advancements, especially in the last couple of decades. While the late '90s saw fluctuations in nuclear power, the past fifteen years have witnessed consistent growth in wind and solar capacities. Starting in 2015, wind energy began a marked upward trend, punctuated by significant additions in 2020 and 2023. Similarly, solar power saw an uptick beginning in 2018, with substantial gains in 2020 and an ongoing increase through 2023. The record-breaking growth in recent years underscores the country's commitment to a sustainable energy future, though it is essential to maintain this momentum and overcome any previous declines in nuclear output for a more diversified clean energy portfolio.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.