Grid operator Enexis has asked households with solar panels, including in Asten, to occasionally have their solar panels dimmed. “The power grid is overcrowded and in a number of areas we are reaching limits,” says Enexis. The measure is necessary to prevent power outages. “I understand the need,” says Astenaar Stijn.
In Brabant, this concerns parts of the municipalities of Asten, Someren, Cranendonck, Veghel and Helmond. There are critical power grids that are at risk of becoming overloaded during generation peaks, which are times in the summer when a lot of energy is generated. The local power production may then be so high that the grid cannot cope, with the risk of power outages and damage to cables.
Not everyone can participate
Households in these areas received a letter from Enexis requesting that their solar panels be dimmed during peak times. Which areas received the letter depends on the distribution station to which a street is connected. This may differ per street.
Participation is voluntary. Those who participate will receive a compensation of 25 cents per kilowatt hour. Enexis states that this compensation covers the lost revenue and that consumers will therefore not lose out. On an annual basis, this amounts to a few euros to tens of euros per household.
Do not dim yourself
Anyone who gives permission does not have to do anything themselves. Company Zonnedimmer arranges that the solar panels are scaled back or temporarily switched off at the right times. Marion den Doop from the Asten district of Loverbosch therefore has doubts. “You lose some control. I think control is more important than money.”
Neighborhood colleague Stijn Brilman has also not yet made a decision. “I still have to look into it. I understand the need. If we can help, we are happy to do so, but you don’t want to set yourself back.”
‘The more the better’
During an earlier trial in Helmond and Waalwijk, five percent of households with solar panels participated. Enexis hopes that at least 8 to 10 percent will participate in the current campaign, and expects to achieve that. “The more, the better.”
The measure is only used when there is a threat of overload and is temporary. “It is a bridge until the grid reinforcement is ready,” says Enexis.
Here you can read all the stories about the Brabant power grid.