NET Initiative: Port of Rotterdam Takes Steps to Solve Grid Congestion

NET Initiative: Port of Rotterdam Takes Steps to Solve Grid Congestion

(IN BRIEF) The Port of Rotterdam, in partnership with grid operators TenneT and Stedin, has launched the New Energy Taskforce (NET) to address grid congestion challenges in the port and surrounding areas. Roger Knubben leads NET, bringing extensive experience in the energy sector and strategic planning. The initiative aims to accelerate grid expansion, enhance electricity demand forecasting, and promote flexible electricity consumption. Grid operators will introduce flex tenders to encourage adaptable power usage. NET will collaborate with companies to identify and address congestion bottlenecks, considering solutions at both individual and cluster levels. Companies in the port area facing grid issues can seek assistance from NET, while grid operators remain the primary contact for connection-related queries.

(PRESS RELEASE) ROTTERDAM, 31-Jan-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — The Port of Rotterdam, the largest seaport in Europe, announces that it has embarked on an innovative initiative known as the New Energy Taskforce (NET) in collaboration with grid operators TenneT and Stedin, aiming to assist companies in managing grid congestion effectively. Taskforce leader Roger Knubben, a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in strategy and transition, including the energy sector, is spearheading this endeavor.

NET is a vital component of the Port of Rotterdam Authority’s comprehensive program initiated at the close of 2023, addressing congestion challenges within the port and its vicinity. This program encompasses accelerated grid expansion, improved electricity demand forecasting, and endeavors to promote flexible electricity consumption.

To promote flexible power consumption, grid operators will launch dedicated flex tenders later this year. Furthermore, NET is committed to aiding companies in developing holistic solutions that contribute to enhancing power usage flexibility.

Roger Knubben, Director of the Taskforce, stated, “We will work with the companies to look at the possibilities within their own site, but we think there is also a lot of potential for solutions at cluster level. Consider the design of energy hubs, where companies work together to coordinate the generation, storage, conversion and consumption of energy.”

A specialized team has been assembled for NET, comprising experts well-versed in the energy sector and congestion challenges, including professionals from the Port of Rotterdam Authority, Stedin, and TenneT. In the coming months, they will engage with companies in the port area to identify bottlenecks, assess opportunities for addressing grid congestion, and develop tailored solutions for each bottleneck.

Companies operating in the port area encountering specific challenges or bottlenecks are encouraged to reach out to the Taskforce. Roger Knubben emphasized, “The grid operator remains the first point of contact if you need a connection or have questions about the waiting list. But if you want to talk about possible solutions, the Taskforce is there for you.”

Media contact:

Mandy Ros
Spokesperson for theme energy transition
+31 (0)6 1134 7932

SOURCE: Port of Rotterdam