ACM to study the contribution of battery systems and electrolyzers to the grid
In order to utilize the grid as efficiently as possible, system operators need help from users that are flexible in the supply or consumption of electricity during certain moments. Large battery systems and electrolyzers are able to offer such help. Batteries are able to consume extra electricity or supply electricity during peak moments. Electrolyzers are able to help by converting a surplus of electricity into hydrogen. With this help, the grid will be utilized more efficiently. The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) believes it is important that grid costs are distributed as fairly as possible among all grid users, and that users that help in utilizing the grid more efficiently are rewarded for this help. That is why ACM launches a study into what an appropriate reward is for the contribution of battery systems and electrolyzers towards a more efficient utilization of the grid.
Manon Leijten, Member of the Board of ACM, says: “In recent months, various market participants have indicated that the positive contribution of battery systems and electrolyzers is greater than previously thought. That’s why ACM will study this. If it turns out that these types of businesses indeed produce a decrease in the costs, we’ll examine how we can reward these businesses extra for that decrease.”
Since demand for electricity as well as supply of sustainable energy are growing faster than the grid can be expanded, the grid has become congested in many locations. Businesses that help in utilizing the grid more efficiently reduce the need for costly grid expansions. This is also called system efficiency.
At the moment, businesses such as battery systems and electrolyzers are already able to get a discount on their grid tariffs by making use of the flexible contracts that system operators must offer, for example, with alternative transport rights. ACM expects to publish the study into the positive contribution of battery systems and electrolyzers in the fall.
See also
- 24-04-2025 ACM’s draft decision on group transport agreements marks an important step for energy hubs
- 30-03-2023 Transport tariffs and electricity storage (in Dutch)
- Core report on Policy for large-scale battery systems and consumption-related grid congestion (external website) | Report | Rijksoverheid.nl (in Dutch)
- Electrolyzers, grid tariffs, and the electricity system (external website) | CE Delft (in Dutch)