- BIST10011,722-2.89%
- USD49.45+0.05%
- EUR55.62+0.37%
- GOLD4,186.70+0.40%
- INTEREST37.00%-1.00
- BITCOIN81,420-0.10%
- October 17, 202611°
- BIST10011,722-2.89%
- USD49.45+0.05%
- EUR55.62+0.37%
- GOLD4,186.70+0.40%
- INTEREST37.00%-1.00
- BITCOIN81,420-0.10%
- October 17, 202611°
Dutch coal plants have already surpassed their 2024 output
Electricity generation by coal-fired power plants in the Netherlands had exceeded the total recorded for all of 2024 by August 14. Rising electricity demand due to maintenance at two nuclear power plants in Belgium and high energy prices supported production.
Production at the Netherlands’ coal-fired power plants had exceeded the level recorded throughout 2024 as of August 14. The plants thus reached one of their highest production levels in recent years.
Production recorded during the first part of the year remained below the level for all of 2025. However, if the current trend continues, Dutch coal plants could also exceed their 2025 total.
Belgian electricity demand increased production
In addition to high energy prices, a sharp rise in electricity demand from Belgium contributed to the increase in production. Belgium had to import a significant share of its electricity during the first half of the year because two of its major nuclear power plants were undergoing maintenance.
Martien Visser, a retired lecturer in energy transition at Hanze University of Applied Sciences in Groningen, said the increase in demand from abroad had brought Dutch coal plants back into operation. Visser said the Netherlands was exporting large amounts of electricity.
Coal production approaches levels seen during gas crisis
Dutch coal plants last reached similar production levels during the natural gas crisis in 2022. The rapid rise in natural gas prices during the Russia-Ukraine war led to an increase in coal-fired electricity generation that year.
A similar situation has emerged in the current period, in which the war in Iran has been a factor. Plant production rose despite the higher carbon dioxide tax imposed on coal use.
Coal use could save 60 million cubic meters of gas per week
Martien Visser argued that increased use of coal plants should not in itself be considered a negative development. He said that under agreements on total emissions in Europe, higher emissions in one country could be offset by lower emissions in another.
Visser said the shift toward coal was not only a necessity but also offered an opportunity to preserve natural gas reserves. He said this method could save 60 million cubic meters of natural gas per week, allowing the gas to be used to replenish reserves.
Stay Updated with RuskiGazeta
Subscribe to be informed about special news, developments and announcements. We will keep you informed.
By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy
