Energy

You use energy in your home for lighting, heating, cooking, electrical appliances and hot water. You pay energy bills to an energy company every month. 

Energy in the home 

In the Netherlands, you use gas and electricity. Gas heats your home and water. You use electricity for lights and appliances. You pay an energy bill every month. Once a year, you get an annual statement. If you have used less energy, you will get money back. If you have used more, you will have to pay extra. 

Choosing an energy company 

You often get to choose your own energy supplier. Prices and contracts vary for every energy company. A contract can be fixed or variable. With a fixed contract, you pay the same price for a while. With a variable contract, the price may change. This happens when energy prices rise or fall. 

Saving energy 

You save money by using less energy. Turn off the light when you leave a room. Take shorter showers. Turn devices off completely. Turn the heating down or off when you are not at home. That way you consume less gas and electricity and pay less money. 

Help with high energy costs 

If you are struggling to pay your energy bills,  

• contact your municipality. It can tell you what help or schemes are available. Sometimes you can also get help to make your home more energy efficient. 
• You can also talk to an energy helper in your area. These people give free advice on saving energy and paying bills. 
• If you have questions about money, you can get help through the Geldfit website, where you will find organisations in your area. You can also contact Geldfit free of charge and anonymously by phone (0800-8115), WhatsApp or chat. 
• If you cannot pay your energy bill, call your energy supplier. Explain the problem and ask if you can agree a payment arrangement.