The Ministry of Ministry for Economic affairs and climate policy of The Netherlands (EZK) wants to assess and analyze electricity costs for industry in The Netherlands, Belgium, Germany and France. EZK would like to understand what market developments, trends and policy action is driving the electricity cost of the industry in these countries until 2030. Of particular interest are policies on network tariffs, the total network cost per country in comparison with the network cost per user.  Further cost elements like taxes, levies and possible subsidies should also be investigated. The outcome of the study might potentially be used in the work of the Penta lateral electricity forum between the respective countries.

The objective of the study was the analysis and investigation of the development of electricity cost for large industrial companies with different flexibility levels and load-profiles. The study focussed on the following outcome and deliverables for Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, France for the years 2024 until 2030:

• Assessment of energy policy, relevant trends and regulatory framework relevant for electricity cost of industry in respective countries NL/DE/FR/BE with focus on 2023 – 2030
• Analysis and quantification of electricity cost components for large industries
• Quantification of the total long-term electricity costs for industrial users (in EUR/MWh) based on current known plans and policies, with the following scope and cost components:
  • Network costs split between the total network costs per country (bln EUR) and costs for industrial users (EUR/MWh)
  • Taxes, levies, possible subsidies and exemptions
  • Electrical energy costs based on current and forward commodity prices.
• Graphical evaluation of electricity cost components for industry per country
• Country comparison and discussion of fundamental drivers, announced policy, trends and cost drivers for electricity

E-Bridge generated a comprehensive and detailed overview and quantification of the electricity cost components for large industries in 2024 and the expected development of electricity cost in 2030. A fundamental and energy policy outlook was provided and discussed per country. The key results and take aways for the ministry of economic affairs were summarized and presented in a concise and transparent fashion. Policy recommendations were given to the client.