A Guide: Utilities in the Netherlands

By |Published On: 10 december 2023|Last Updated: 29 februari 2024|3,8 min read|

Cost of utilities in the Netherlands: Gas & Electricity

Experience the charm of cozy winter evenings with a warm shower, a hot cup of tea, and a snug bed in your warm bedroom—thanks to the indispensable services of a utility company. Curious about setting up your utilities in this country?

Navigate to reliable websites like:

Enter your postal code, house number, and current supplier. The list includes all Netherlands-based suppliers, with options like ‘onbekend’ (‘don’t know’) and ‘geen i.v.m. verhuizing’ (‘just moved, don’t have one yet’). The top of the list features the three leading companies.

Provide your annual usage or household size and indicate if your residence has solar panels for an approximate usage estimation. On the next page, explore offers, choosing from 100%-sustainable (‘green’), 50% sustainable, or 0% sustainable energy. Specify contract duration and preferred fixed or variable rates.

Considering actual or estimated consumption, view a list of monthly (or annual) amounts payable for utility services. Key factors to consider during your comparison include:

  1. The per-unit cost of gas
  2. The per-unit cost of electricity
  3. Delivery (administrative) costs, where a low per-unit cost might be offset by high delivery expenses
  4. Introductory (‘welcome’) rebates to attract new customers.

Make an informed decision about your utility provider to enjoy efficient and cost-effective services.

Moving in the Netherlands

Your first necessity is electricity, followed by a cooking gas connection. Multiple companies offer diverse plans to suit your needs, with the average monthly bill for gas and electricity ranging from 125 to 200 euros. Gas tends to be pricier than electricity, depending on your usage and appliance type.

Typically, energy companies offer yearly contracts allowing you to pay a fixed monthly amount. At year-end, they calculate your usage, refunding the difference for lower consumption or invoicing extra for higher usage.

For those who cook frequently, gas bills may exceed the expected cost. Opting for an induction heater running on electricity can be a cost-saving alternative, contingent on your usage. Choose LED lights over incandescent bulbs for enhanced energy efficiency.

Consider upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, each marked with an energy consumption sticker indicating its energy usage. Make informed choices to manage your gas and electricity expenses efficiently.

Water for your Dutch Household

Each Dutch residence receives a water bill comprising two components: the regular water supply cost and the water tax. While the tax is determined by various factors, the supply cost is contingent on your usage. On average, the annual water bill amounts to 200 euros (in 2024), potentially reduced through readings from a water meter.

In the Netherlands, where the climate tends to be cooler, every home is equipped with running hot water. Some residences utilize hot water for heating as well, and occasionally, a separate bill is issued for hot water and heating usage, distinct from the electricity bill.

Mobile Phone and Data

Moving on to internet and TV, a reliable Wi-Fi connection is considered a vital necessity akin to water and electricity in today’s world. When relocating, securing a dependable internet connection becomes a priority. Despite Dutch internet prices ranking among the highest in Europe, providers typically offer bundled packages encompassing both internet and TV services. Alternatively, if you find TV unnecessary, you can opt for an internet-only connection.

Numerous internet and TV providers present various packages at different price points. On average, the combined monthly cost for internet and TV ranges from 60 to 70 euros, influenced by the provider and data volume. Opting for an internet-only connection can result in significantly lower monthly charges, typically falling within the range of 40 euros in 2024.

The average monthly cost for 1GB of data ranges from 3 to 8 euros. Unlimited domestic calls typically incur charges of around 10 to 20 euros. Sim-only subscriptions begin at approximately 4 euros per month. Additional charges apply for international roaming, depending on the chosen plan. For those with high data usage, a post-paid plan is also available as an option.

Editor’s Pick

Author: Roger Kentie

Roger is a Dutch citizen with experience living and working as an expat in multiple countries. Roger has a deep understanding of the complex Dutch financial landscape and is able to provide insights to help other expats make informed financial decisions.

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