Key Developments
On 31 July 2026, the Netherlands Ministry of Defence launched its Energy Security Roadmap 2026, setting out measures to reduce fossil fuel dependence, strengthen energy resilience at military sites, and improve energy supply for operations.
Key Statistics
- 30% fossil fuel independence target by 2030, according to the Netherlands Ministry of Defence
- 68 military locations are due to receive energy master plans, according to the Netherlands Ministry of Defence
- €290 million in Dutch sustainable aviation fuel support was approved by the European Commission
- €100 million in initial SecFund capital was previously allocated for Dutch strategic innovations, according to the Netherlands Ministry of Defence
Main Body
On 31 July 2026, the Netherlands Ministry of Defence announced the Energy Security Roadmap 2026, a defence plan intended to make Dutch military energy supplies more reliable and less dependent on fossil fuels. The ministry said the roadmap covered both fixed military locations and deployed operations.
The Netherlands Ministry of Defence said the plan included a target of 30% fossil fuel independence by 2030 and the preparation of energy master plans for 68 military sites. The ministry also said it would increase the use of sustainable fuels and improve energy provision for operational activity, linking environmental measures to military readiness and continuity of supply.
The roadmap followed other Dutch defence steps aimed at reducing external dependency. On 20 July 2026, the Netherlands Ministry of Defence said its SecFund investment fund had begun supporting military technology development, including the SkyHive drone system, with €100 million in initial capital for strategic innovation and a stated aim of strengthening the Dutch technology base.
The announcement also sat within wider European energy and industrial policy. On 31 July 2026, the European Commission approved €290 million in Dutch state aid for sustainable aviation fuels. For defence, the practical significance was that more resilient domestic energy planning could reduce operational risk, improve infrastructure planning at bases, and support supply security during crises.
