Dutch Government Enforces Feasibility Studies for Solar Projects in 2025
The Hague, Tuesday, 10 June 2025.
From 2025, all solar projects seeking SDE++ subsidies must complete feasibility studies, ensuring investment viability and sustainability, even as permitting eases for other projects.
Mandate Details and Rationale
Beginning this year, the Dutch government mandates that all solar projects applying for SDE++ subsidies must conduct a feasibility study. This requirement, championed by Minister Hermans of Climate and Green Growth, aims to ensure that investments in solar energy are financially viable and sustainable. While other renewable energy projects under the SDE++ scheme will see relaxed permitting requirements, solar projects will maintain stringent criteria to encourage accountability in the transition to cleaner energy sources [1][2].
Financial Support and Competition
The Dutch government has allocated an €8 billion budget for the SDE++ subsidy scheme in 2025, with the same amount promised for 2026. This substantial financial support is designed to foster healthy competition among applicants and help balance investment costs [1]. The scheme is set to open on 7 October 2025, with applications accepted until 6 November 2025, offering a clear window for project developers to prepare and submit their proposals [1].
Challenges and Strategic Adjustments
Minister Hermans addresses potential cost increases, allowing businesses that previously secured an SDE++ grant but are unable to execute their projects due to cost escalations to withdraw their grant applications and resubmit in future rounds. This flexibility aims to adapt to economic fluctuations and ensure the success of renewable projects [1][3]. Importantly, solar energy projects must still meet permit requirements, reflecting their critical role in renewable energy production [2].
Looking Ahead: Future Provisions and Adjustments
The current state aid approval for the SDE++ scheme, set to expire on 31 December 2025, requires a four-year extension to ensure continuity. If this extension is not secured, decision-making for 2026 could be stalled [1]. To enhance solar subsidies further, considerations are underway to introduce a maximum CO2 footprint requirement for solar panels in the 2026 subsidy round, potentially aligning financial incentives with sustainability metrics [1][4].