Cooperative Energy Generation Subsidy

The cooperative energy generation subsidy (Subsidieregeling Coöperatieve Energieopwekking, SCE) supports homeowners' associations (VVEs) and energy cooperatives that want to jointly generate renewable electricity. The scheme covers solar panels, small wind turbines, and hydropower installations for shared use by members of the cooperative or VVE.

You apply through the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) during designated application rounds. The subsidy compensates for the difference between the cost of generating renewable energy and the market price, paid out over a 15-year period. Your cooperative or VVE must be a legal entity and the installation must be connected to the electricity grid. Members receive a reduction on their energy bill for their share of the generated electricity.

Requirements

  • Applicant: Homeowners' association (VVE) or energy cooperative
  • Type of installation: Solar energy, wind energy or hydropower for electricity generation
  • Shared use: Generated energy must be distributed among multiple participants
  • Capacity: Installation must meet minimum and maximum capacity requirements from scheme

Procedure

  • Subsidy application: Submit application to Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO)
  • Budget: Subsidy is granted on first come, first served basis until budget is exhausted
  • Assessment: RVO assesses whether application meets conditions
  • Grant: If granted, subsidy decision is provided
  • Realization: Installation must be realized within set deadline
  • Determination: After realization, have subsidy determined by submitting evidence