Netherlands Country Commercial Guide
Learn about the market conditions, opportunities, regulations, and business conditions in netherlands, prepared by at U.S. Embassies worldwide by Commerce Department, State Department and other U.S. agencies’ professionals
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Energy
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Overview

The Netherlands is actively working to decrease its reliance on fossil fuels with the Dutch energy policy focused on reducing carbon dioxide emissions through a so-called “Energy Transition.”  The government committed to a 55% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 compared to 1990 and 95% by 2050. In 2024, the top five energy sources of the energy mix in the Netherlands were oil (39%), natural gas (37%), biomass (6.7%), wind (6.4%) and solar (4.3%).

The Netherlands is both a major importer of energy, most notably crude oil and liquified natural gas (LNG), and a major distributor (mainly through the Port of Rotterdam). In 2024, the Netherlands maintained a significant position within the European energy market, particularly in terms of LNG imports. Since Russia’s further invasion of Ukraine in 2022, imports of U.S. crude oil and natural gas have increased substantially.

The Netherlands boasts a wide infrastructure network; it has roads and railways interconnected with the most significant European trade routes, and the Netherlands hosts shipping ports which connect the Netherlands globally. Major Dutch shipping hubs are the port of Rotterdam, the largest container seaport in Europe, the port of Amsterdam, the port of Vlissingen, and the port of Eemshaven.

Leading Sub-sectors

Despite the Dutch government’s goal to reduce fossil fuels in its energy system, the Netherlands’ will remain dependent on a balanced and resilient energy mix, including oil, gas, nuclear and renewable power. Nuclear energy and LNG are two sources that can provide stability, security, and flexibility, ensuring the country can meet its energy needs while pursuing energy goals.

Opportunities

Nuclear Energy Expansion: The Dutch government has committed to expanding nuclear energy as part of its strategy to achieve decarbonize its energy system by 2050. Plans include the construction of up to four new large nuclear reactors by 2040, with the Dutch government so far allocating €14 billion towards the expanding the nuclear power sector. This creates opportunities for U.S. companies with expertise in nuclear technology, construction, and safety systems.

LNG Infrastructure: The Netherlands has become a key hub for LNG imports in Europe, especially as the EU reduces its reliance on Russian gas. The expansion of LNG terminals and storage facilities offers opportunities for U.S. LNG exporters and infrastructure developers.

Renewable Energy Growth: The Netherlands is rapidly increasing its capacity for offshore wind and solar energy, and bolstering the power grid to meet growing renewable energy supply and demand. U.S. companies specializing in renewable energy technologies, grid integration, and energy storage can find a growing market for their solutions.

Energy Storage Systems: The rise of battery energy storage systems (BESS) to manage grid fluctuations presents a lucrative opportunity for U.S. firms with advanced storage technologies.

Resources

Market Analysis
Climate and Energy Outlook of the Netherlands 2024
Enerdata

Trade Shows

Offshore Energy Exhibition & Conference 2025
November 24& 25, 2026

Associations

Dutch Association for Sustainable Energy (NVDE)
Trade Association for Wind Energy
Industry Association for the Hydrogen Sector

Contact

Diederik Moreu, Head of Section
U.S. Commercial Service – the Netherlands
Diederik.Moreu@trade.gov I +31 70 3102418

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