Electric charging with grid congestion: what can your connection support?
Ordering an electric vehicle is one step; being able to charge on time is the next. Compare daily charging needs with available power, building demand and parking hours. The map is an initial indication; your grid operator confirms site-specific capacity.
How much power do you need?
Small-user connections go up to 3×80 A, roughly 55 kW. Above this you need a large-user connection. Since 1 July 2026, small and large applications in congested areas share one waiting list. Making better use of your existing capacity reduces dependence on it.
What you can do
Smart charging
Charging management spreads demand through the night and accounts for your building’s consumption to stay within capacity. It is often the cheapest first step and sufficient for several vehicles.
Stay within your current grid connection
If charging fits within your existing connection, you avoid the waiting list. Smart charging and longer charging windows often allow more vehicles than expected. Use the calculation above.
Depot battery storage
Battery storage charges when grid capacity is available and supplies extra power when vehicles charge. It covers peaks without a larger connection and can increase use of your own solar generation.
Flexible grid contract
Grid operators offer contracts allowing higher demand outside busy hours, restricting supply for a set number of hours annually, or reducing supply during congestion (non-firm). These can suit overnight charging, be available sooner and cost less.
Work with neighbouring businesses
Businesses on an industrial estate can form an energy hub, sharing grid capacity through a group contract and coordinating demand: one charges overnight while another operates during the day.
Charge at customers or en route
Charge while unloading at customers or at motorway hubs. Electricity costs more per kWh, but can bridge the wait for your own connection. See Charging.
Bridge the waiting period
Until your connection is ready, you can temporarily use a mobile battery or charging unit. Ask your dealer or charger supplier; some offer this alongside the vehicle purchase.
How to apply
- Check your address on the grid capacity map to see whether power is available and whether there is a waiting list.
- Calculate the power you need for your fleet today and in five years.
- Enquire: up to 3×80 A through Mijnaansluiting.nl; larger connections directly through your grid operator. Applications are queued, with priority for social functions and projects that relieve the grid. Apply before the vehicle arrives.
- Ask about alternatives: flexible contracts, expected waiting times and what is possible in the meantime.
From energy needs to a charging plan
Multiply daily distance by energy use per km. Divide the energy needed by available charging hours and allow for charging losses and simultaneous demand. Check contracted capacity as well as the physical connection.
Multiple vehicles or sites? Request fleet advice