News item | 08-01-2026 | 09:00
From January 1, 2026, several measures have been introduced to accelerate the expansion of the power grid and other energy infrastructure. These projects are necessary for the construction of the future energy system and for tackling the full power grid. The measures focus on shorter procedures and faster spatial integration of projects. This allows construction to start earlier.
Preventing delays in investigations
Before the grid operators can build new infrastructure, they conduct on-site investigations, such as ground measurements and soil research. If landowners do not give permission for this research, this will lead to delays. Therefore, from January 1, 2026, a standard obligation to tolerate preparatory work so that landowners must provide access. Depending on the situation, this can save a number of months to a maximum of a year and a half in delays (procedural time). The measure can be applied to expansions of the power grid and also to the national hydrogen network, heating infrastructure and mining activities. The measure can come into effect six months earlier than originally planned through rapid agreement.
Expansion of expert pool for municipalities and provinces
From January 1, 2026, the central government will also expand the Energy Infrastructure Expert Pool out. This allows more municipalities and provinces to receive faster and better support in the choice of location, licensing and associated activities for energy infrastructure projects. Municipalities and provinces can make use of temporary expertise such as project leaders and legal support from experts who have a lot of experience with these types of projects.
In addition, in addition to high-voltage projects, the expert pool is now also available for medium-voltage projects. Also other forms of energy infrastructure, such as hydrogen pipelines and CO2transport and large-scale storage can be supported by the expert pool.
Acceleration approach
Both measures are part of the package of measures announced in April 2025 to expand the power grid more quickly. The expansion of the expert pool is made possible by an investment of €22.5 million from the Climate Fund for the period 2026–2030.