The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) is in the process of developing a new regulatory methodology aimed at setting tariffs for system operators from 2027 onwards. This initiative follows an 18-month consultation period involving various stakeholders, including system operators and users of the grid and gas network.

Currently, ACM assesses system operators' costs only after they have made expansions or adjustments to their grids. The new methodology will shift this approach to an ex ante assessment, allowing ACM to evaluate costs before they are incurred. This change is intended to better address the challenges of grid capacity shortages and necessary investments in the energy transition.

ACM plans to finalize the new methodology over the coming months, with draft decisions expected in 2025 and definitive decisions in 2026. This timeline will enable ACM to implement the new tariff-setting process in 2027.

The energy landscape has changed significantly over the past two decades, with a shift from fossil fuels to sustainable energy sources and increasing energy demand leading to grid congestion. ACM aims to balance the needs of the energy transition with affordability for system users, emphasizing the importance of effective oversight of system operators.

The new methodology will allow system operators to receive compensation for their costs along with a reasonable return. ACM will impose requirements to ensure that system operators make efficient decisions and provide transparency to grid users regarding their actions and associated costs. ACM retains the authority to intervene if system operators fail to meet these obligations.

ACM stresses that creating a future-ready energy system requires collaboration among all market participants, including system operators, users, and local governments. Public consultations will be held to gather feedback and ideas from stakeholders as part of the development of the new regulatory methodology.