NMa: current regulatory framework for electricity and natural-gas distribution networks has been successful, but will be made more flexible to better take into account special circumstances

Social developments, such as an increased emphasis on sustainability, the rise of electric cars, and a growing interest in wind energy, have compelled the NMa to evaluate the existing regulatory framework. In its vision document, the NMa emphasizes the importance of stability and flexibility. ‘Having a stable regulatory framework is essential, not just to network operators but also to consumers. Regulatory stability is needed to assure network operators and their investors that they will be able to recover the costs of their investments, while the networks’ users are guaranteed that tariffs continue to be cost-oriented,’ says Mr. De Keijzer.

The regulatory framework already offers the opportunity of taking into account each individual network operator's specific circumstances. The NMa will be investigating whether even more flexibility can be offered by using the instrument of considerable investments in more cases than until now has been the case. In addition, the NMa will continue to regularly monitor developments at network operators in order to adjust its regulation as effectively as possible.

The vision document was drawn up after an extensive empirical study had been carried out into the actual effects of regulation, and after consultations had been held with several of the parties involved, such as network operators and other interest groups. The study revealed that the current regulatory framework has proven successful. Network operators are stimulated to work more efficiently, without delaying necessary investments. In addition, not a single operator has abandoned any investment plans because of a lack of funds.