Housing > Electricity & Gas in The Netherlands

Electricity & Gas in The Netherlands

The energy and gas market in the Netherlands is privatized. You can select your own provider for gas and electricity. The electricity network is controlled by Tennet and the gas network by de Nederlandse Gasunie.   

Electricity & Gas in The Netherlands
Housing: Electricity & Gas in The Netherlands

We explore in this section

Energy Sources in the Netherlands

Renewable
The Netherlands has been transitioning towards renewable energy sources in recent years, with a significant focus on wind and solar power.

Gas
Natural gas has historically been a major energy source in the Netherlands, but there's a push to reduce its usage due to environmental concerns.

Experimental
Other renewable sources like biomass and hydropower also contribute to the energy mix, although to a lesser extent.

Types of Energy contracts in the Netherlands

Fixed-Rate Contract

  • With a fixed-rate contract, consumers pay a set price for their energy (either electricity, gas, or both) for a specified period, typically ranging from one to three years.
  • The advantage of a fixed-rate contract is that it provides price stability, shielding consumers from fluctuations in energy prices during the contract period.
  • However, if energy prices decrease during the contract period, consumers may end up paying more than the market rate.


Variable-Rate Contract

  • In a variable-rate contract, the price consumers pay for energy fluctuates based on market conditions. This means that the cost of energy can vary from month to month.
  • Variable-rate contracts offer flexibility, as consumers are not locked into a fixed price for an extended period. They may benefit from lower prices if energy costs decrease but are exposed to potential price increases.
  • These contracts often have no fixed term and can be terminated with relatively short notice.


Green Energy Contracts

  • Green energy contracts allow consumers to support renewable energy sources by choosing electricity generated from renewable sources such as wind, solar, or biomass.
  • These contracts may come with a premium compared to traditional energy contracts, reflecting the additional cost of renewable energy production.
  • Green energy contracts can help consumers reduce their carbon footprint and support the transition to a more sustainable energy system.

Dual-Fuel Contracts

  • Dual-fuel contracts combine electricity and gas services into a single contract offered by the same energy supplier.
  • Bundling electricity and gas services often results in discounts or other incentives from suppliers, making it a convenient option for consumers who use both energy types.


Prepaid Contracts

  • Prepaid energy contracts require consumers to pay for energy upfront, similar to a prepaid mobile phone plan.
  • Consumers purchase a certain amount of energy credit and use it as they consume electricity or gas. When the credit runs out, they must top up their account to continue receiving energy services.

Energy providers in the Netherlands

The Netherlands has several reliable Energy providers.

Essent
Vattenfall
Energiedirect

Independer (compare website)



 
This page was last updated: 04/18/2024.