LocalMesh
The Emergency Radio Network of the Netherlands
When a power outage, disaster, or crisis takes down the internet or mobile network, LocalMesh lets you send messages anyway.
LocalMesh is the emergency radio network by citizens in the Netherlands, for citizens. An independent system that lets you stay in contact with family, neighbors, and others – even without wifi, internet, or phone service.
Join the Emergency Radio Network
With a LoRa radio device you can access the MeshCore emergency radio network
Via Your Phone
Connect the LoRa radio device via Bluetooth and send text messages
Free Network
No subscription, no monthly fees
Everyone Can Join
Help build a nationwide emergency network
What is LocalMesh?
LocalMesh is a Dutch citizen initiative that helps people in the Netherlands prepare for emergency situations.
When regular internet or mobile networks fail – for example due to a power outage, overload, or disaster – LocalMesh ensures you can still communicate with each other.
The system uses MeshCore, an open and free network protocol that lets you send messages to others on the network.
Volunteers and radio amateurs place repeaters that strengthen the network, extending your message's reach.
You Don't Need Technical Knowledge
- A small emergency radio device that you connect to your phone via Bluetooth
- Messages travel via repeaters until they reach the right person
- No internet, provider, or subscription needed
The Emergency Radio Network is 100% Free
The MeshCore emergency radio network works without subscription, no provider, no monthly fees.
One-Time Investment
An emergency radio device costs from €50
One-time purchase, no costs after that
Free Network
No subscription, no provider
Always free to use!
Community-Driven
Volunteers place repeaters
Together we make the network stronger
Note: You only pay for the emergency radio device itself. The MeshCore emergency radio network has no owner, no company behind it, and therefore no usage costs.
Why LocalMesh is Important
Our society depends on digital connections. But during a major outage, disaster, or crisis, these can fail.
With MeshCore you stay connected.
The MeshCore network keeps functioning because it doesn't depend on one central server or company. It's built from individual devices that communicate directly with each other, even when there's no mobile network.
Send Messages
to family or neighbors
Share Help
or information within your neighborhood
Collaborate
with others in emergency situations
LocalMesh is not just useful during disasters, but also a step towards more self-reliance and cooperation.
100+
Active Repeaters in the Randstad
Today there are dozens,
tomorrow maybe thousands –
in every province, city, and village.
A Network That's Already Growing
There's already an active community of people working with MeshCore in the Netherlands – especially in the Randstad.
Radio amateurs, tech enthusiasts, and pioneers have already placed hundreds of repeaters that communicate with each other.
LocalMesh wants to expand this network and make it accessible to everyone in the Netherlands.
Even for people who don't have technical knowledge but simply want to be prepared. The more people join, the stronger the network across the Netherlands becomes.
How Does It Work Exactly?
The principle is simple:
Small LoRa Radio Device
You need a LoRa radio device that you connect to your phone via Bluetooth
Connect
Via Bluetooth to your phone
Free App
To send text messages
Send
Via repeaters to recipient
No internet needed
No SIM card needed
No wifi needed
Connect the LoRa radio device to your phone via Bluetooth — and you're connected to the network.
Who is LocalMesh For?
LocalMesh is for everyone who wants to communicate independently
Citizens
who want to be prepared for crisis situations
Neighborhoods & Villages
who want to set up a local network together
Emergency Services
volunteers or neighborhood watch groups
Travelers
campers and outdoor enthusiasts
Radio Amateurs
and makers who want to help expand the network
Everyone
Open, free, and non-commercial
Join LocalMesh
Want to help make the Netherlands more reachable during emergencies?
No subscription, no monthly costs – just a small LoRa radio device.
Buy or build a small LoRa radio device
Install MeshCore (or use ready-made)
Connect it via Bluetooth to your phone
Send your first message on the network
Within a few minutes you can be connected to others in your neighborhood.
Every additional participant makes the network stronger – for you and everyone around you.