Best energy providers for expats in the Netherlands 2026
Complete comparison of Coolblue Energie, Essent, Eneco, Vattenfall, Greenchoice, Frank Energie and others
Transparency notice
This guide includes an affiliate link for Coolblue Energie. When you sign up through our link, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This helps keep NLCompass free. All providers (affiliate and non-affiliate) are reviewed objectively based on 2026 pricing, English support, contract flexibility, and customer feedback. We do not accept payment to rank any provider above another.
2026 Dutch energy market: What expats need to know
The Netherlands has a fully liberalised energy market, meaning you are free to choose your own electricity and gas supplier. Unlike in many countries, the physical delivery of energy is handled by regional network operators (Liander, Enexis, or Stedin depending on your region) regardless of who you buy your supply from. Your energy supplier simply bills you for the energy you consume.
As of 2026, the ACM has licensed 60 electricity suppliers and 58 gas suppliers. Price differences between them can be substantial: independent analysis in early 2026 found that switching from an expensive variable contract to a competitive fixed-rate deal can save a typical household more than €550 per year.
Key insight for expats
The Netherlands has some of the highest gas taxes in Europe (roughly two-thirds of the gas price per m³ consists of energy and value-added tax). Electricity is comparatively affordable due to a substantial government tax rebate (heffingskorting) of around €635 per household per year. This means switching energy supplier matters most for gas-heavy households and those in older, poorly insulated homes.
Dutch energy contract types explained
Fixed-rate contract (Vast contract)
Your price per kWh and per m³ is locked for the contract term (commonly 1, 2, or 3 years). Protects you from price rises; you won't benefit if prices fall. Best for long-term residents wanting cost certainty.
Variable contract (Variabel contract)
Price changes monthly or quarterly based on market conditions. No fixed term, so you can cancel anytime without penalty. Can be cheaper when market prices fall, but offers no protection against spikes.
Dynamic contract (Dynamisch contract)
Electricity price changes hourly based on the wholesale spot market. Best for households with solar panels, smart home devices, or those willing to shift usage to cheaper hours. Requires a smart meter and active management.
In 2026, fixed-rate contracts are particularly popular as providers are offering competitive discounts, and wholesale prices are lower than the peaks of 2022-23 (though they remain above pre-crisis levels). Variable contracts carry more risk given the demonstrated volatility of Dutch energy prices in recent years.
Quick comparison (indicative 2026 pricing)
Pricing below is based on publicly available tariff data from February 2026. Actual monthly costs depend on your consumption, contract term, welcome bonuses, and regional network tariffs. Always run a personalised comparison using the tools listed further down this page.
| Provider | Electricity (fixed) | Gas (fixed) | Green? | English? | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coolblue Energie ★ | ~€0.241/kWh | ~€1.259/m³ | 100% NL | ⭐⭐⭐ | English speakers, solar owners |
| Essent | ~€0.281/kWh (variable) | ~€1.295/m³ (variable) | Option | ⭐⭐ | Name recognition, large provider |
| Eneco | ~€0.24-0.27/kWh | ~€1.20-1.31/m³ | Option | ⭐⭐ | Sustainability focus, EV owners |
| Vattenfall | ~€0.24-0.27/kWh | ~€1.20-1.31/m³ | Option | ⭐⭐ | Large provider, competitive discounts |
| Greenchoice | ~€0.273/kWh (variable) | ~€1.306/m³ (variable) | 100% | ⭐⭐⭐ | Sustainability priority, English support |
| Frank Energie | ~€0.11-0.20/kWh (dynamic) | Daily market rate | Option | ⭐⭐ | Active energy users, solar panel owners |
| ANWB Energie | ~€0.208-0.228/kWh (dynamic) | ~€1.07-1.14/m³ (dynamic) | 100% NL | ⭐ | EV owners, solar owners, no lock-in |
| Budget Energie | Low market rates | Low market rates | Partial | ⭐ | Price-first, Dutch-comfortable |
| Pure Energie | Market rate (100% green) | CO₂-compensated | 100% | ⭐ | Greenest option, strong reviews |
★ Affiliate partner. Electricity and gas tariffs are indicative as of February 2026, excluding network operator costs and energy taxes (which are the same regardless of supplier). Always verify directly with the provider or use a comparison tool before signing up.
Bottom line for 2026
For English-language setup and clear communication
Coolblue Energie at ~€0.241/kWh electricity and ~€1.259/m³ gas offers competitive fixed-rate pricing, a fully English website, and the trusted Coolblue brand. Good fit for most expats.
For maximum name recognition and physical support
Essent, Eneco, or Vattenfall are the three dominant providers covering more than 6 million households. Competitive on fixed-rate deals but their variable rates are among the most expensive in February 2026 market data.
For the greenest credentials
Greenchoice (awarded most customer-friendly energy provider since 2017) or Pure Energie (100% renewable) — both offer English support and are well-reviewed for sustainability focus.
For lowest possible price
Use an independent comparison site (Independer, Gaslicht.com, Energiekiezer, or VinkVink) to find the sharpest current fixed-rate deal with welcome bonuses. Budget Energie and smaller providers often lead on headline price.
For active energy management (solar panels or EV)
Frank Energie's dynamic hourly pricing can generate real savings, but requires a smart meter and willingness to shift usage to cheaper hours.
Coolblue Energie
Official website: coolblue.nl/en/energy
Coolblue Energie is the energy division of Coolblue, the Netherlands' most popular consumer electronics retailer, known for its "everything for a smile" customer philosophy. Coolblue launched its energy brand in 2021 and has grown to over 100,000 customers. It offers 100% green electricity from Dutch wind turbines and solar panels, with CO₂-compensated gas at competitive fixed and dynamic rates.
For expats, Coolblue Energie stands out for its fully English website and English customer service — genuinely rare in the Dutch energy market. The utilities setup process is straightforward, and Coolblue's brand reputation means reliable service and clear billing.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Contract types | Fixed (1, 2, 3 year), Dynamic (hourly electricity) |
| Electricity rate (fixed, Feb 2026) | ~€0.241 per kWh |
| Gas rate (fixed, Feb 2026) | ~€1.259 per m³ |
| Renewable energy | 100% green electricity from NL (Guarantees of Origin), CO₂-compensated gas |
| Solar panel feed-in | ~€0.120/kWh compensation; €0.115/kWh feed-in fee applies |
| English support | ⭐⭐⭐ Full English website, English customer service |
| Switch time | 2 minutes to sign up; old contract cancelled automatically |
| Welcome bonus | Cashback and product discounts for new customers (check current offer) |
| BSN required | Yes |
Advantages
- Full English website and customer service (rare in Dutch energy)
- 100% Dutch green electricity at no premium
- Competitive fixed-rate pricing
- Coolblue brand trust and customer-first culture
- Dynamic contract option for hourly pricing
- Up to €250 discount on energy-efficient appliances
- Quick and easy online sign-up (2 minutes)
Disadvantages
- No dedicated energy app with real-time meter data
- Relatively newer brand (founded 2021) vs. established players
- Some reviews flag delay in final billing upon cancellation
- Customer service not always easily reachable by phone
- Only offers energy (no bundling with TV or internet)
Expats who want English-language energy in the Netherlands
Competitive fixed rate, 100% green electricity, trusted Coolblue brand
View Coolblue Energie plansOfficial website: coolblue.nl/en/energy
Essent
Official website: essent.nl
Essent is one of the three dominant Dutch energy providers, supplying around 2 million households. Part of the German E.ON group since 2009, Essent is a full-service energy company offering electricity, gas, and additional home services. Its variable rates are among the higher-priced options in early 2026 market data, though fixed-rate contracts can be competitive, especially with welcome cashback discounts.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Contract types | Fixed (1 and 3 year), Variable |
| Variable electricity rate (Feb 2026) | ~€0.281/kWh (among higher variable rates in market) |
| Variable gas rate (Feb 2026) | ~€1.295/m³ |
| Customer base | ~2 million households in Netherlands |
| English support | ⭐⭐ Limited — primarily Dutch website and customer service |
| Welcome bonus | Cashback offers for new customers (amounts vary by contract) |
Advantages
- Large established brand with decades of operation
- Full-service energy provider (home services, heat pump advice)
- Part of E.ON Group — financially robust
- Welcome cashback discounts on fixed contracts
Disadvantages
- Variable rates among the highest in the market (Feb 2026)
- Website and customer service primarily in Dutch
- Subject to Consumentenbond mass claim regarding variable contract overcharging
Who should choose Essent? Long-term residents comfortable with Dutch who want a well-known brand with extensive home services, and those who find a competitive fixed-rate deal with a strong welcome bonus through a comparison site.
Eneco
Official website: eneco.nl
Eneco is one of the Netherlands' three major energy companies and a leader in sustainability. Owned by Mitsubishi Corporation since 2020, Eneco operates wind farms, solar parks, and EV charging networks. It offers a range of green energy contracts and is known for its digital tools. Its variable rates have been among the higher-priced in 2026 market data; fixed-rate deals with welcome discounts can be more competitive.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Contract types | Fixed (1 and 3 year), Variable, Dynamic (Toon® thermostat integration) |
| Electricity tariff range | ~€0.24-0.27/kWh depending on contract |
| Gas tariff range | ~€1.20-1.31/m³ depending on contract |
| Unique feature | Toon® smart thermostat; EV charging integration |
| English support | ⭐⭐ Limited — primarily Dutch; some English on website |
| Solar panel feed-in | Fee of 11.5 cents/kWh applies; net metering transitioning |
Who should choose Eneco? Expats with an electric vehicle (to benefit from Eneco's charging network), those wanting smart home integration via Toon®, and sustainability-focused households — provided you compare their fixed rates carefully against alternatives.
Vattenfall (formerly Nuon)
Official website: vattenfall.nl
Vattenfall acquired Dutch provider Nuon in 2009 and operates as one of the three major Dutch energy suppliers. It is owned by the Swedish state and has ambitious sustainability targets. Vattenfall often leads the "big three" with competitive welcome discounts (up to €400 for new customers in late 2025 data), making it worth comparing on a fixed-rate basis even if its standard rates sit in the mid-market range.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Contract types | Fixed (1 and 3 year), Variable, Dynamic |
| Welcome discount (new customers) | Up to €400 cashback on 1-year fixed contracts (check current offer) |
| Renewable energy | Green electricity options; Vattenfall targets net zero by 2050 |
| English support | ⭐⭐ Limited — primarily Dutch; international brand awareness |
| Customer base | ~2 million Dutch households |
Who should choose Vattenfall? Those who find Vattenfall's current welcome bonus makes it the overall best-value fixed-rate deal via a comparison tool, and long-term residents who want a major established provider with sustainability credentials.
Greenchoice
Official website: greenchoice.nl
Greenchoice has been voted the most customer-friendly energy provider in the Netherlands every year since 2017. With over 600,000 customers, it specialises in 100% renewable energy from Dutch sources. Notably, Greenchoice offers English-language customer support, an important practical advantage for expats. Its variable rates are currently among the higher-priced in the market; its fixed-rate contracts are more competitive.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Contract types | Fixed (1 and 3 year), Variable |
| Variable electricity rate (Feb 2026) | ~€0.273/kWh (higher-end in current market) |
| Variable gas rate (Feb 2026) | ~€1.306/m³ |
| Renewable energy | 100% green electricity from Dutch wind and solar; CO₂-compensated gas |
| English support | ⭐⭐⭐ English customer service available (uncommon in Dutch energy market) |
| Community programme | "Nature for Tomorrow" — customers support NL conservation projects |
Who should choose Greenchoice? Expats who prioritise English customer support and maximum sustainability, and who want the most customer-friendly service in the market, even if it comes at a slight price premium over the cheapest deals.
Frank Energie
Official website: frankenergie.nl
Frank Energie is a Dutch dynamic pricing provider that passes wholesale market prices directly to consumers. You pay the actual spot market rate for electricity each hour, plus a fixed supplier margin. This means electricity prices can be very low during windy or sunny periods and higher during peak demand. Frank Energie's rates have frequently been below the Dutch average, but they require active energy management and a smart meter.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Contract type | Dynamic hourly electricity; daily gas rate |
| Electricity rate example | ~€0.109-0.195/kWh in recent months (wholesale-linked, varies hourly) |
| Smart meter required | Yes |
| App | Shows today and tomorrow's hourly rates for scheduling |
| English support | ⭐⭐ App partially in English; customer service in Dutch |
| Best for | Solar panels, home batteries, EV charging, smart appliances |
Who should choose Frank Energie? Tech-savvy expats with solar panels, home batteries, or an EV who are willing to shift consumption to off-peak hours. Not recommended for those wanting predictable monthly bills.
ANWB Energie
Official website: anwb.nl/energie
ANWB Energie is the energy brand of ANWB (the Royal Dutch Touring Club), one of the Netherlands' most trusted organisations with over 4 million members since 1883. Launched in 2022, ANWB Energie has grown to approximately 200,000 customers and holds an estimated 35-40% share of the Dutch dynamic contract market, making it the market leader in dynamic energy. It offers exclusively dynamic contracts: electricity prices change hourly based on wholesale market rates; gas is priced daily.
ANWB Energie operates on a deliberate no-profit-on-tariff model. You pay the actual wholesale market purchase price plus a fixed markup (€0.018/kWh electricity, €0.059/m³ gas) and a monthly standing charge of €8.50 per connection. There are no welcome bonuses, by design: ANWB argues that cashback deals simply hide costs elsewhere. The contract has no fixed end date and can be cancelled with 30 days notice and no exit fee.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Contract type | Dynamic only (no fixed or variable contracts offered) |
| Electricity rate (all-in, Feb 2026) | ~€0.208-0.228/kWh (hourly wholesale price + €0.018/kWh markup + taxes) |
| Gas rate (all-in, Feb 2026) | ~€1.07-1.14/m³ (daily market rate + €0.059/m³ markup + taxes) |
| Standing charge | €8.50/month per connection (electricity and gas separately) |
| Renewable energy | 100% Dutch wind and solar (GvO certified); ~37% wind, ~63% solar |
| Smart meter required | Yes (mandatory for hourly metering) |
| English support | ⭐ Phone only (press 2 for English); website and app Dutch-only |
| Solar panel feed-in | No feed-in penalty fee; compensation at hourly market rate |
| Welcome bonus | None (deliberate policy) |
| Cancellation | 30 days notice, no exit fee |
| Customer base | ~200,000 customers; market leader in dynamic contracts |
| Consumentenbond mass claim | Not included (founded 2022; dynamic contracts only) |
Advantages
- Trusted ANWB brand (est. 1883, 4M+ members)
- No lock-in, cancel with 30 days notice, no penalty
- 100% Dutch renewable electricity
- No feed-in penalty for solar panel owners
- Transparent pricing: market price + fixed markup only
- ANWB Slimladen EV smart charging app integration
- Not part of the Consumentenbond mass claim
Disadvantages
- Website and app are Dutch-only
- App rated 2.1/5 on iOS (crashes, unreliable data)
- Not listed on Independer or most comparison sites
- Dynamic pricing requires active energy management
- Smart meter required (most NL homes have one)
- Final billing (eindafrekening) can take 12-13 weeks
- No welcome bonus
Who should choose ANWB Energie? Expats with a smart meter who want a trusted Dutch brand with no lock-in, solar panel owners who benefit from the no-penalty feed-in policy, and EV drivers who can use the ANWB Slimladen smart charging app. Less suitable for those who need an English-language digital experience or want predictable fixed bills.
Other notable providers
Pure Energie: Best Independer-rated provider
Pure Energie consistently ranks #1 in Independer's customer review rankings. It offers 100% renewable energy (electricity from Dutch wind and solar, and CO₂-compensated gas). With over 600,000 customers, it focuses on genuine sustainability rather than greenwashing. Its website is primarily in Dutch, but it is worth comparing on price via the tools below.
Budget Energie: Price-first option
Budget Energie focuses on competitive rates and is a well-known low-cost provider. It has been included in the Consumentenbond mass claim regarding variable contracts, so if you choose Budget Energie, a fixed-rate contract is preferable. Website and support are in Dutch only.
Vandebron: Dutch-source renewable specialist
Vandebron connects customers directly with Dutch renewable energy producers. You can choose your specific energy source (wind farm, solar park, or biogas). Over 200,000 customers. Useful for expats with strong sustainability priorities who want genuine traceability. Dutch-language only.
Oxxio: Digital-first, competitive pricing
Oxxio is a digital-first provider known for competitive pricing and user-friendly online tools. It is often competitive in price comparison results. Dutch-language website and support.
Independent comparison tools
Because energy tariffs change frequently and welcome bonuses can significantly affect your total cost, we strongly recommend using at least one independent comparison tool before signing up. The platforms below aggregate real-time offers from dozens of providers.
| Tool | Language | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Independer | English available | ACM-approved; broad provider coverage |
| Gaslicht.com | English guide | Detailed comparison; expat-friendly guide |
| Energiekiezer | Dutch | Broad provider coverage |
| VinkVink | Dutch | Includes smaller providers |
| Overstappen.nl | English available | Clear interface; English price guide |
Tip: Run the same consumption through 2-3 different comparison sites, as not all providers list on every platform. The cheapest deal for your specific usage and postcode may not appear on the first tool you use.
How Dutch energy billing works: Key concepts for expats
What you actually pay for
Your monthly energy bill in the Netherlands consists of three separate components, only one of which you can influence by switching provider:
Supply tariff (leveringstarief)
The price per kWh for electricity and per m³ for gas charged by your chosen supplier. This is where comparison and switching saves money.
Network costs (netbeheerkosten)
Fixed fee for maintaining the cables and pipes, set by your regional network operator (Liander, Enexis, or Stedin). The same regardless of which supplier you choose. In 2026, these increased by approximately €25 per year per household.
Energy taxes (energiebelasting + ODE + VAT)
Government taxes. The same for all suppliers. In 2026 the government's annual heffingskorting (tax rebate) is approximately €635 per electricity connection, applied directly to your electricity bill by your supplier.
Average Dutch household consumption
| Electricity | ~2,700-2,900 kWh per year (CBS, 2024-2025 data) |
| Natural gas | ~1,020-1,200 m³ per year (varies with insulation quality and home size) |
| Average benchmark electricity | ~€0.23/kWh based on 20 cheapest providers (February 2026) |
| Total electricity cost (all-in) | ~€0.25-0.27/kWh including all taxes and network fees |
The net-metering transition (salderingsregeling)
If you have solar panels, be aware that the Netherlands is phasing out its full net-metering scheme. From 2025 onwards, energy fed back into the grid is no longer compensated at the full supply rate. Most providers now charge a feed-in fee and pay a lower compensation rate. If you have solar panels, pay particular attention to each provider's terugleververgoeding (feed-in compensation) and terugleverkosten (feed-in costs) when comparing.
How to switch provider
- 1Check your current contract end date and whether early termination fees apply (variable contracts: no fees; fixed contracts: check your contract).
- 2Compare offers using your annual kWh and m³ consumption (found on your last annual statement or energy bill).
- 3Sign up with your new provider online. The process takes around 5 minutes and they will cancel your old contract on your behalf.
- 4You have a 14-day cooling-off period to cancel the new contract without cost.
- 5Your new supply begins automatically. You will not experience any interruption to electricity or gas.
Leaving the Netherlands early
If you leave the Netherlands before your contract ends, most fixed-rate contracts allow cancellation without penalty on proof of municipal deregistration (uitschrijving from the gemeente). Variable contracts can be cancelled with one month's notice. Check your specific contract terms, as this is particularly important if you signed a 2 or 3-year fixed deal. See our complete exit guide for the full deregistration process.
What you need to sign up for energy
Before signing up, you need to have registered your BSN and opened a Dutch bank account — both are required by most providers.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Dutch address | Required. Must be registered at this address at the gemeente. |
| BSN (Burger Service Nummer) | Required for most contracts. Register at your local gemeente first. |
| Dutch bank account (IBAN) | Required for direct debit. Most providers require a Dutch or EU bank account. |
| Current meter readings | Helpful but not always required. Smart meter homes: retrieved automatically. |
| Annual consumption | From your previous annual statement if available, or estimate based on household size. |
| EAN code | The unique 18-digit identifier for your connection. Found on your previous bill or from your landlord. Your new provider can often look it up from your postcode and house number. |
Decision framework by expat profile
Just arrived and want English support
Coolblue Energie or Greenchoice. Both offer English-language support, which is rare in the Dutch energy market. Coolblue Energie is slightly more price-competitive; Greenchoice has the highest customer satisfaction ratings.
Price is the top priority
Use a comparison tool. Run your consumption through Independer, Gaslicht.com, or Energiekiezer to find today's sharpest fixed-rate deal with the best welcome bonus. Budget Energie and smaller providers often appear at the top. Prefer a fixed contract over variable.
Long-term resident (2+ years)
Competitive 1-3 year fixed contract. Fixed rates offer cost certainty and are typically cheaper than variable in 2026. Compare across tools before committing to a 3-year term. Essent, Vattenfall, and Eneco all offer multi-year fixed contracts with welcome discounts.
Short stay (under 1 year)
Variable contract or 1-year fixed. A variable contract gives maximum flexibility to cancel anytime. If your landlord has not already included utilities in your rent, set up a variable contract and avoid multi-year commitments.
Have solar panels
Compare feed-in terms carefully. With the net-metering phase-out underway, providers vary significantly on feed-in compensation rates. Coolblue Energie (~€0.120/kWh), Frank Energie (dynamic), and Essent offer different structures. Run a solar-adjusted comparison on Independer or Energiekiezer.
Sustainability priority
Greenchoice, Pure Energie, or Coolblue Energie. All three provide 100% green electricity. Greenchoice and Pure Energie lead on customer-rated sustainability credentials; Coolblue Energie adds the convenience of English support. Vandebron allows you to choose your specific Dutch renewable energy source.
Electric vehicle (EV) owner
Eneco, Frank Energie, or ANWB Energie. Eneco integrates with its own EV charging network. Frank Energie's dynamic pricing can make overnight EV charging significantly cheaper during low-demand hours. ANWB Energie offers the Slimladen smart charging app, which integrates with most major EV brands and automatically schedules charging to coincide with the cheapest hourly prices.
Utilities included in rent
Verify with your landlord. Many rental contracts (especially furnished apartments) include energy costs in the monthly rent. If that is your situation, you do not need a separate energy contract.
Frequently asked questions
Which energy provider is best for English-speaking expats in the Netherlands?
Coolblue Energie and Greenchoice both offer English-language customer service, which is rare in the Dutch energy market. Coolblue Energie is slightly more price-competitive at ~€0.241/kWh electricity (fixed, Feb 2026); Greenchoice has the highest customer satisfaction ratings since 2017. If English support is your priority, start with either of these two.
Do I need a BSN to sign up for energy in the Netherlands?
Yes, a BSN (Burger Service Nummer) is required for most energy contracts. You also need a Dutch address (registered at the gemeente), a Dutch or EU bank account for direct debit, and ideally your current meter readings. If you have just arrived, register at your local gemeente for your BSN first, then set up your energy contract.
What is the difference between a fixed and variable energy contract?
A fixed-rate contract locks your price per kWh and per m³ for the contract term (1, 2, or 3 years). You are protected from price rises but do not benefit if prices fall. A variable contract changes monthly or quarterly and can be cancelled anytime without penalty. In 2026, fixed-rate contracts are generally cheaper and recommended for most expats due to demonstrated energy price volatility in recent years.
Can I switch energy provider easily in the Netherlands?
Yes. Switching takes around 5 minutes online. Sign up with the new provider and they will cancel your old contract automatically. Variable contracts can be switched anytime without penalty. Fixed contracts may have early termination fees, so check your contract end date first. You have a 14-day cooling-off period after signing up with a new provider.
What happens to my energy contract if I leave the Netherlands early?
Most fixed-rate contracts allow cancellation without penalty if you provide proof of municipal deregistration (uitschrijving from the gemeente). Variable contracts can be cancelled with one month's notice. If you are unsure about how long you will stay, a variable contract or a 1-year fixed contract is the safest choice.
How much can I save by switching energy providers?
Independent analysis in early 2026 found that switching from an expensive variable contract to a competitive fixed-rate deal can save a typical Dutch household more than €550 per year. The biggest savings come from avoiding the high variable rates charged by major providers like Essent (€0.281/kWh variable) and moving to a competitive fixed-rate deal.
Do I need a smart meter for a Dutch energy contract?
A smart meter is required only for dynamic pricing contracts (such as Frank Energie). For standard fixed or variable contracts, you do not need one. Most Dutch homes built or renovated in recent years have a smart meter. If your home does not have one, you can request a free installation from your regional network operator (Liander, Enexis, or Stedin).
Is green energy more expensive in the Netherlands?
Not necessarily. Coolblue Energie offers 100% Dutch green electricity at ~€0.241/kWh — competitive with non-green providers. Greenchoice offers 100% renewable at variable rates currently around €0.273/kWh. The price difference between green and non-green contracts has narrowed significantly in 2026. Always compare fixed-rate deals using an independent tool before assuming green costs more.
What is the heffingskorting energy rebate in the Netherlands?
The heffingskorting is an annual government tax rebate of approximately €635 per electricity connection, applied directly to your electricity bill by your supplier. It reduces the effective cost of electricity for all households, regardless of which supplier you use. It is one reason electricity in the Netherlands is comparatively affordable despite high energy taxes overall.
Are utilities included in my rent in the Netherlands?
Not usually. Most standard rental contracts in the Netherlands do not include energy. Furnished apartments and short-term expat rentals sometimes include utilities in the monthly rent. Always clarify with your landlord before signing. If utilities are not included, you are responsible for setting up your own electricity and gas contract after registering at the gemeente.
Next steps after sorting your energy
Energy is one of the first utilities to set up after arriving. Here's what to tackle next:
Prices and plans change frequently. All tariffs in this guide are indicative as of February 2026. Always verify current offers directly with the provider or use an independent comparison tool before signing up. Network operator costs, energy taxes, and government rebates are not included in the supplier tariffs quoted.