Priority during power grid shortage

Who is given priority?

Normally, those who apply first are given priority. However, in areas with grid congestion, some organisations can request priority from grid operators through the new prioritisation framework. Organisations that are given priority are divided into 3 categories. In these cases, it is irrelevant whether organisations are large or small consumers of electricity (large-scale users and small-scale users).  

1. Congestion mitigators: organisations that free up capacity on the power grid for other users. For example: businesses that store energy.
2. Safety and security: organisations that provide a safe environment or emergency care. These include the police, fire brigade, defence sector and emergency healthcare.
3. Basic needs: organisations that provide basic social needs, including housing and education. 

The new prioritisation framework came into effect on 1 January 2026. The division into three categories is the same as in the previous prioritisation framework. The ACM has included additional social sectors, which means that more users are given priority. 

Small-scale users who were not given priority during grid congestion were also placed on the waiting list 

Initially, only large-scale users (with a connection greater than 3x80 amps) were placed on the waiting list. Grid operators reserved space for small-scale users (with a connection up to 3x80 amps), which meant that they could always be connected. Small-scale users include households and small and medium-sized businesses, such as shops and restaurants. By reserving capacity for small-scale users, large-scale users were more likely to be placed on the waiting list. This was also the case for large-scale users with priority, such as hospitals. This is undermines the Prioritisation Framework, which is why the procedure for small-scale users will change.  

Grid operators need time to prepare for the new procedure; they need to introduce the new framework, inform clients in a timely manner and adjust business processes. The current working method will therefore remain in place until 1 July 2026. As of 1 July 2026, small-scale users that have not been given priority will also be placed on the waiting list in the event of grid congestion. Small-scale users that have been given priority (such as housing and schools) will still be able to use the remaining reserved capacity. 

When do the changes take effect? 

1 January 2026 

• The new Prioritisation Framework comes into effect. Large-scale users can now request priority. No change as yet for small-scale users.  

1 July 2026 

• The transition period begins. The reserved capacity for small-scale users is only available for organisations that have been given priority in accordance with the Prioritisation Framework. This applies to housing and schools, for instance. 

1 January 2027 

• The new working method should now be fully operational.