Smart grid control

Grid control is the smart steering of devices that use or store a lot of power, such as an EV charger, home battery or hybrid heat pump. Not to make you use less, but to shift when you use it. In Dutch it is called netsturing or netbewust laden.

The grid is far busier at some times of day than others. By moving demand away from that peak, you help the network without giving up comfort.

Solar panels, electric cars and heat pumps mean we use more power at the same moments, mostly in the evening. In many neighbourhoods the grid was not built for that. Reinforcing it takes years and a lot of money.

Flexible devices help in the short term. A car that charges a few hours later, or a battery that waits a moment, lowers the evening peak. That uses existing capacity better while the reinforcement work continues.

It runs through your energy supplier's software, not directly through the grid operator. During busy moments that software shifts, for example, your car charging, your heat pump warming up, or your home battery charging and discharging.

Taking part is voluntary. You give permission through a contract or scheme with your supplier. The aim is that you do not notice it in normal use: your car is ready in the morning and your home stays warm.

Three devices are the main fit: the EV charger, the home battery and the hybrid heat pump. They can shift their use or storage without you noticing much.

The key condition is that the device can be steered remotely. Not every brand or inverter can, and sometimes a software update or smart meter is needed. Ask about this before you buy if you want to join later.

There is compensation for making flexibility available. It runs through your energy supplier, not directly through the grid operator. How much and in what form differs per supplier and contract.

There is no fixed national rate that applies to everyone. So do not count on it as income: for most participants it is a small bonus, not an earner. Check what your own supplier offers.

Grid control flattens peaks and buys time. It is a useful piece of the puzzle, especially as more cars and heat pumps arrive.

It is not a replacement for a stronger grid. The parties involved are clear about that: the network still needs reinforcing and expanding. Treat grid control as an addition, not the solution.

If you are thinking about solar panels, a home battery or an EV charger, it pays to allow for smart control now. Pick equipment that can be steered remotely and that you can expand later.

We look with you at a setup that fits your usage and is ready for these kinds of schemes. That way you avoid replacing everything in a few years just to take part.