Half of Dutch fearing higher bills due to energy transition plans

A study commissioned by the ANWB among nearly 2,000 respondents shows that 45 percent of Dutch citizens are worried the energy transition will hurt them financially. Many fear that their energy bills will continue to rise. This concern is widespread, affecting not only low-income households but also about half of those earning an average income.

As the organization representing motorists, the ANWB considers the energy transition a key concern, since it has a direct impact on how affordable transportation remains.

“The electricity grid is under heavy pressure from the ongoing transition, and renewable sources like solar and wind are increasingly dictating both the rhythm and the cost of energy,” the ANWB stated. “The results are evident: highly volatile electricity prices and worsening congestion on the grid.”

Among those who have not taken steps to make their homes more sustainable, 22 percent say the main reason is a lack of money. The feeling of being left out of green solutions like solar panels is especially common among renters and lower-income households.

According to the study, which was carried out by Blauw Research, 64 percent of households report that they are already taking steps to save energy, for instance, by improving insulation, reducing shower time, or switching to more efficient technologies like electric vehicles.

One in four houses in the Netherlands still carries an energy label of D or lower, indicating relatively poor energy efficiency. The ANWB plans to partner with Energie Samen to support households in better managing and understanding their energy expenses.

Specific financial aid and hands-on support will be offered, particularly to households lacking the means to invest in sustainability. Efforts will focus on local approaches, such as partnering with energy cooperatives.

About a third of respondents (34 percent) adjust their energy consumption to take advantage of lower rates, such as using electricity during off-peak hours or under dynamic pricing schemes. Another third (33 percent) produce some of their own energy, most commonly through solar panels. Meanwhile, one in five Dutch consumers unknowingly holds a variable energy contract, which frequently leads to higher expenses.