What is a CBC?
A CBC (Capacity Limitation Contract — Capaciteitsbeperkingscontract) is an agreement between a customer and the grid operator to temporarily limit maximum power consumption or feed-in, usually during peak hours on the grid. The customer receives a discount on grid tariffs during the moments of scaling back, or compensation for missed feed-in.
How does a CBC work?
The customer keeps their connection but accepts a consumption or feed-in ceiling at specific times or based on call-off (CBC-t vs. CBC-a). In return, the customer receives compensation on grid tariffs (kW contract) during the call-off period.
Important: Non-compliance can lead to fines and endangers the safety of the electricity grid.
When is a CBC suitable?
A CBC is ideal if you have a predictable peak load that you can periodically flatten. Think of a manufacturing company adjusting its shift schedule, or a charging plaza implementing smart charging.
CBC + Battery: a smart combination
If your company doesn't have a peak load you can easily flatten, you can use a battery to supplement during periods of lower available power. This way you can still access a higher power connection.
Example: A logistics company with a large charging plaza for electric trucks rents a battery container. The battery charges at night (outside the congestion moment) and delivers power during the day when the company has less capacity available due to the CBC.
Important considerations
- Penalties: Both financial fines per undelivered MWh and liability for damage to grid infrastructure
- Maintenance compliance: Flex obligations apply even during planned maintenance — notify your grid operator or CSP well in advance
- Contract duration: Ranging from 1 to 5+ years — check if the term aligns with your flex asset depreciation
Contact Skoon to explore whether a CBC is right for your situation.