The European Court said on Tuesday that the Dutch law forcing energy companies to split supply and delivery systems is not against EU law.

The court in Luxemburg said splitting the grid from the companies can be justified because it is in the interests of consumers and it ensures energy supply.

Eneco and Delta are the only Dutch energy companies that have not yet split off their grids, since the government introduced the law in 2008. They are also the only energy companies still owned by provinces and local councils.

The ruling by the European Court does not mean the split will happen immediately. The Dutch court still has to make a decision.

The Netherlands is the only European country that forces energy companies to split their supply and delivery network.