Due to lower tax rates on fuel and tobacco in Germany, petrol stations near the border are witnessing a significant increase in customers from the Netherlands. This trend has far-reaching effects on local business and consumer behaviour.
The controversial net metering regulation for solar panels, a central element in promoting renewable energies, will remain in place for the coming years. Despite plans by the caretaker cabinet to abolish this regulation, the Senate faction of GroenLinks-PvdA, with a decisive majority, has stood against the changes. This marks a significant victory for owners of solar panels and sends a strong signal in support of renewable energies.
DSW, a prominent health insurer in the Netherlands, has announced an unprecedented increase in the health insurance premium, amounting to €149 per month in 2024. This increase of €11.50 per month is the largest since introducing the Health Insurance Act in 2006. This development has set off alarm bells regarding the accessibility and affordability of healthcare in the Netherlands.
The Dutch government has announced plans to acquire shares in the network operator Stedin. This comes after the assessment of a capital request from Stedin, with the state expressing an intent to participate in the network company, aiming further to stimulate investments for the energy transition and economic growth.
In 2022, the Netherlands observed a significant decrease in extractable natural gas reserves, primarily due to the declining extractability of the Groningen field. Simultaneously, gas prices surged, driving the value of the reserves to 71 billion euros, compared to just 16 billion euros in the previous year.
