Energy companies active in the Netherlands announced today their decision to adapt the structure of EnergieNed, the body representing the energy sector. On 1 July 2008, EnergieNed will become an association of energy companies operating in the free energy market in the Netherlands. Members include energy producers, traders and retailers. Network operators already set up their own association of energy network operators (Enbin) in the latter half of 2007. The energy companies have decided to adjust the structure of their association with each other as a result of the new situation in the energy market in which the network operators now have a completely independent role in the market. EnergieNed and Enbin are to be supported in their activities by their jointly run bureau, De EnergieZaak.

EnergieNed
EnergieNed was established in 1992 as an association of energy distribution companies. In 1999 EnergieNed redefined itself as a federation, admitting production companies to its membership. As from 1 July 2008 EnergieNed will become an association of energy producers, traders and retailers in the Netherlands. EnergieNed is the point of contact for matters affecting the energy market, such as environmental issues, free market performance and security of supply. EnergieNed is the forum in which energy producers consult each other on issues such as the environment and investment conditions, traders consult each other on the functioning of the wholesale market and the integration of European markets, and retailers discuss a wide range of topics varying from stimulation of energy saving to consumer protection. In addition, EnergieNed sets general terms and conditions of supply. It is also the forum in which market issues that widely affect participants in the commercial energy chain are discussed. Hans Alders is the president of EnergieNed.

Enbin
Enbin is since 1 October 2007 the association in the energy sector representing the interests of national and regional electricity and gas network operators in the Netherlands. Before then, network operators were organized in the section Network Operators of the federation EnergieNed. Network operators have two main tasks: they facilitate the smooth functioning of the market and they manage the physical infrastructure of the transport network. Enbin promotes a dialogue with governmental bodies and market participants about the contribution network operators can make towards realizing a successful transition to achieving a sustainable energy supply. Enbin consults with the Office of Energy Regulation, NMa/DTE, about how gas and electricity supply can be maintained and extended at socially responsible and efficient levels. Security of supply and safety are predominant considerations in this endeavour. In addition, Enbin organizes consultation between market parties on adjustments needed to facilitate the smooth functioning of the free market. On behalf of network operators, Enbin makes proposals for the adjustment of the legally established regulations and procedures for, among other things, the structure of network tariffs. Enbin also proposes the general terms and conditions for network connections and energy transport. Jeroen de Swart (Director, Eneco Network Supervision) is President of Enbin.

De EnergieZaak
EnergieNed and Enbin receive support from their jointly run bureau De EnergieZaak, which represents their interests from offices in Arnhem, Brussels and The Hague. De EnergieZaak helps shape policy, facilitates decision-making on policies and coordinates their implementation. De EnergieZaak, which employs around thirty people, also ensures that issues embracing the entire energy chain are tackled at an appropriate level. Its management board comprises the presidents of EnergieNed and Enbin. Frank Munnichs is general manager of De EnergieZaak.

Download PDF version
Structure EnergieNed