Economic and social council urges clear, long-term sustainability policy
The Social and Economic Council (SER) advises that the Netherlands adopt a stable, long-term sustainability policy. At present, the approach is too influenced by the priorities of individual governments, creating uncertainty for citizens.
The SER’s advice aims to ensure “broad prosperity” by 2040. The council notes that unclear policies beyond 2030 are holding back investment by both citizens and businesses. The SER also emphasizes the need for clarity on the duration of subsidies for home sustainability measures. At present, no funding has been set aside beyond 2030, leaving people uncertain about their options.
Those who find it hard to make their homes more sustainable, along with small business owners, face the greatest obstacles. Many do not know where to begin or which subsidies they can apply for, according to the SER. To tackle this, the council recommends establishing low-threshold advice centers where people can walk in for guidance.
Those facing difficulty covering their energy costs should be assisted, for example, through home insulation and access to an emergency fund. Landlords should take responsibility for improving the sustainability of rental properties.
The Netherlands is targeting a 55% cut in emissions by 2030 and full climate neutrality by 2050. The Climate Plan 2025–2035 identifies a steep reduction by 2040 as a critical intermediate goal, potentially reaching around 90%.
One key problem is that programs like the Investment Subsidy for Sustainable Energy and Energy Saving (ISDE) offer no guarantee of funding beyond 2030.
