Since the last review in 2008, the Netherlands has attracted investment in oil and
gas storage; coal, oil and gas import terminals; and efficient power plants. This
additional capacity provides flexibility and energy security both in the Netherlands
and across EU markets. However, the outlook for Europe’s second-largest producer of
natural gas is challenging amid declining gas production and uncertain prospects for
unconventional gas. Developing the remaining natural gas potential, the market integration
and ensuring the security of supply and resilience of the energy infrastructure during
the transition should be top priorities.The Netherlands stimulates energy efficiency
and innovation in energy-intensive industries along the whole supply chain, notably
in the Dutch refining, petrochemical and agriculture sectors, a practice that contributes
to industrial competitiveness.Despite successful decoupling of greenhouse-gas emissions
from economic growth between 1990 and 2012, however, the Netherlands remains one of
the most fossil-fuel- and CO2-intensive economies among IEA countries. In September
2013, the Netherlands reached an agreement with key stakeholders on priority actions
to support sustainable economic growth through 2020. In addition to implementing the
agreement, the government must set the scene for a stable policy framework up to 2030,
which is also crucial for renewable energies.The Netherlands has accelerated permit
procedures for new energy infrastructure and is driving technology cost reduction
with reformed renewable support. The country can benefit from further interconnections
with neighbouring countries, as renewables become an integral part of wholesale and
balancing electricity markets in the EU.This review analyses the energy policy challenges
currently facing the Netherlands, and provides recommendations for each sector. It
gives advice on implementing the Energy Agreement and how to leverage international
opportunities from clean energy technologies. It is only available in PDF format.