From 1 October, customers of Essent and Vattenfall will benefit from reduced energy tariffs. Essent has announced a decrease in the electricity rate to €0.39042/kWh and for gas to €1.32713/m^3. This applies to all 1.2 million households with a variable energy contract. Customers with an average consumption can save up to €118 annually.
Vattenfall follows suit with a reduction of the electricity rate to €0.3463/kWh and for gas to €1.2975/m^3. Notably, Vattenfall is increasing the fixed delivery charges for electricity, meaning customers will pay an extra €3 per month, while the fixed costs for gas are being decreased by €1 per month.
Both energy companies stress the uncertainty of the energy market. Even though prices have dropped for three consecutive quarters, the future development of the energy market during the winter months remains uncertain. This is partly due to rising purchasing prices in the gas market and global developments.
Essent also emphasises the importance of energy conservation and advises customers to invest in items like LED bulbs and draught excluders. With the help of subsidies, customers can also invest in insulation.
From Monday, Germany is implementing intensified border controls that could particularly affect shopping tourists from neighbouring countries. The measures aim to prevent illegal entries and strengthen internal security. But what does this mean for cross-border commuters and shopping enthusiasts?
The announced abolition of the net metering scheme on 1 January 2027 in the Netherlands has caused significant upheaval in the solar industry. Manufacturers and installers of solar panels see their business models threatened, while supporters of the decision hope for a much-needed relief for the electricity grid. This article examines the net metering scheme's background, its abolition consequences, and the prospects for solar energy in the Netherlands.
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.
