Grid congestion: A chain reaction of delays
April 9, 2025
While the demand for electricity is rapidly increasing, the expansion of the power grid is facing severe delays. This is not only due to a lack of physical infrastructure, but also because of the complex permitting procedures and restrictions that make building new energy infrastructure, such as transformer stations, more difficult. This leads to grid congestion: a chain reaction of delays where the power grid cannot keep up with energy demand. The solution to the problem is, in turn, hindered by regulations and capacity shortages.
The nitrogen crisis worsens the problem
The nitrogen crisis has been gripping the Netherlands for years. Initially, the agricultural sector was at the center of the debate, but in recent years, the construction sector has also come under scrutiny. Nitrogen emissions need to be drastically reduced, which means that electricity and zero-emission fuels play a key role. This leads to a so-called ‘catch-22,’ because for zero-emission construction, we need electricity quickly. However, that electricity cannot be delivered on time because the networks are not being expanded fast enough. Heavy machinery is required to lay underground and above-ground cables, but without the necessary infrastructure, we remain stuck.
Do you see the problem?
Why grid operators cannot solve grid congestion quickly
Grid operators are under enormous pressure to expand the power grid with new transformer stations and high-voltage lines. However, the execution of these expansions is bogged down by lengthy permitting processes, with nitrogen regulations serving as an additional obstacle. Grid expansion projects fall under the same strict environmental requirements as housing and infrastructure, causing delays in the construction of crucial electricity infrastructure. Without these expansions, businesses and sectors are left waiting for grid capacity that is not available in time.
The consequences of these delays are visible everywhere: businesses cannot scale their production, the transition to electric construction equipment lags, and new residential neighborhoods remain uninhabited due to a lack of power connections. This is not only a practical challenge but also an economic and ecological deadlock.
How do we get out of the ‘catch-22’?
Mobile batteries and clean generators are part of the solution. Mobile batteries and generators offer an immediate and scalable way to relieve the pressure on the power grid while supporting construction projects.
The solution to both problems:
Strengthen a small grid connection
Mobile batteries and hydrogen generators can be used to create temporary energy buffers at locations where grid congestion occurs. This ensures that the available power is distributed more efficiently without putting extra pressure on the grid. This process, known as peak shaving, reduces demand spikes and makes the grid more flexible.Temporary power supply on construction sites
By deploying mobile batteries as a temporary power supply, construction sites can charge electric equipment without relying on the overloaded grid. The batteries can be charged overnight at a charging hub and function as a mobile buffer during the day to power machinery. This accelerates the transition to emission-free construction and prevents further delays in projects.
Flexible energy solutions are crucial
Grid congestion is a fundamental obstacle to the energy transition and economic growth. The expansions needed to solve this problem are stalled by lengthy permitting processes and nitrogen restrictions. This has direct consequences for other sectors, such as construction.
Let’s work together to ensure that nitrogen issues and grid congestion do not further amplify one another through the ‘catch-22.’ Clean mobile energy solutions are demonstrably helping construction companies and grid operators to continue building in times of grid congestion.
Contact us for a customized energy solution or find out how we can support companies in grid-congested areas with Flexscans. Read more about it in our other blog post.