Priority for Power Capacity: Register Housing and Education Projects

The power grid in the Netherlands is at capacity. This is called grid congestion. As a result, new homes and schools cannot always get a power connection on time.

The Municipality of Kerkrade is doing everything it can to facilitate housing and education projects. That is why the municipality is making use of the national “Apply Early” program. Under this program, priority access to the power grid can be requested for these projects. 

How does Kerkrade support housing and education?

There is not enough capacity on the power grid for all new projects. For this reason, the municipality is compiling a list of projects that qualify for priority. We evaluate all applications in accordance with the Policy Rules for Prioritizing Transmission Capacity Applications in Spatial Planning Decisions.

Please note: A spot on the list does not guarantee an electricity connection. The grid operator ultimately decides whether and when capacity is available.

Why is there so little time?

The first application round follows a national schedule set by the national government, the ACM, and the network operators. Kerkrade is participating right away so that housing projects and schools can be registered as soon as possible.

When can you submit a project?

Your project must:

  • are located in the municipality of Kerkrade;
  • are about housing or a school;
  • be completed by 2036 at the latest;
  • do not yet have sufficient power capacity.

How do you register a project?

Please send an email to gemeentehuis@kerkrade.nl no later than Sunday, September 6, 2026

Use the following subject line: Application for power grid priority. Include your first name, last name, and email address in the email. A municipal employee will then contact you.

How do we evaluate projects?

We evaluate all applications in accordance with established policy guidelines. Among other things, we assess whether the project is feasible, how much it contributes to housing or education goals, and how efficiently it uses the power grid. 

What will happen after September 6?

  • September 7 and 8: We will review the applications and draw up a draft list.
  • September 16: We will publish the draft list.
  • September 17–24: You can provide feedback on the draft list.
  • September 25 and 28: We'll be processing the responses.
  • Starting October 1: We will submit the applications to the grid operator.

Learn more

More information about the nationwide "Apply Early" program: