Direct-current network experiment may help towards the energy transition

The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) wants to allow Dutch distribution system operator Liander to create the first direct-current network in the Netherlands at Lelystad Airport Businesspark. With this experiment, Liander wants to gain experience with direct-current technology, and to study its economic benefits. Direct current can play a major role in the energy transition.

Sustainable and cost-cutting

The generation of sustainable electricity is increasingly based on direct-current technology. And that is also true for more and more applications among businesses. Networks can currently only handle alternating current. As a result thereof, direct current and alternating current often need to be converted into the other. Such conversions result in loss of energy. Having direct-current networks prepares everyone for the increase in sustainable-energy consumption. Such networks can save costs because less energy is wasted.

Experimenting with direct-current technology

As part of the experiment, ACM plans to grant Liander a five-year exemption from several rules governing the electricity market. If the results of the experiment are positive, direct-current networks may be created in more locations, and also by other system operators.                                                                                                                   

Efficient transition to sustainable energy

ACM wants the transition to sustainable energy to take place efficiently in order to keep the costs of the energy transition as low as possible. To that end, having well-functioning markets is critical. While transitioning to sustainable energy, consumers and businesses must be able to rely on the supply of energy.