It is completely unclear how much electricity is being generated by solar panels in the Netherlands, independent researcher Peter Segaar told broadcaster Nos.

At the beginning of February, the Dutch grid operators announced there had been a 50% rise in solar panel-generated power. However, ‘if you really look at the figures, you will see some claims are impossible,’ Segaar said.

For example, there are two small housing developments in Almelo where apparently five megawatts of electricity are being generated. ‘This would require over 1,000 solar panels,’ Segaar said. ‘But we are talking about 135 houses, a field and a swimming pool, so it can’t possibly be true.’

In addition, private individuals and companies mix up the terminology which leads to ‘serious faults in the maths’, he said. It is also impossible to count panels from the air because many are on sloping roofs.

Compulsory registration would be an option, Segaar said. However, this is a sensitive issue politically because it would involve personal information.

Despite the scepticism, solar power is working in the Netherlands, Segaar said.