Essent and Vattenfall, two of the largest energy suppliers in the Netherlands, have announced that in the future they will introduce feed-in costs for customers who supply solar energy to the grid. This is evident from statements from spokespersons for both companies.
Earlier this week, Eneco announced that it would charge solar panel holders with feed-in costs from June at a rate of 11.5 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh). This is much to the dissatisfaction of many customers.
When is the introduction?
It is not yet known when Vattenfall and Essent will introduce feed-in costs. Energy expert Koen Kuijper expects that these costs will probably be implemented before next summer. That is the period when most electricity is returned.
Feed-in costs are also expected at Energiedirect, a subsidiary of Essent with hundreds of thousands of customers.
What do I have to pay?
Unfortunately, details about the amount and form of the return costs at Vattenfall and Essent are still unknown. The companies have announced through their spokespersons that decisions still have to be made.
Such major changes in conditions and digital systems often take some time. However, it can be assumed that intensive work is being done behind the scenes.”
Koen Kuijper (energy expert)
Big differences
Other major suppliers, such as Budget Energie and Vandebron, already charge feed-in costs. On average, the costs are approximately 240 euros per year for 2,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) of returned electricity.
There are large differences in feed-in tariffs between providers. For example, some suppliers only charge a higher standing charge (for the time being).
Energy company responses
Both energy suppliers have explained to energievergelijk.nl what they think about the introduction of feed-in costs.
Essent
Essent believes it is important that the increasing costs for generated solar energy are distributed more fairly. Our starting point is a solution that is as transparent as possible. We will communicate this clearly to our customers in due course.”
Hannah van der Weg (Essent spokesperson)
Vattenfall
Because solar panel owners are allowed to offset their generated energy against their consumption, customers without solar panels pay the majority of the costs. That is why we are also looking at ways to better distribute these costs. It is currently unknown whether, and if so, what is the best way. Of course we will keep our customers informed.”
Hidde Kuik (spokesman Vattenfall)
Energy supplier without feed-in costs?
You can currently still conclude a fixed energy contract with a few companies, such as Vattenfall, Essent and Energiedirect, without feed-in costs.
Another option is a model contract, but the rates are often higher.
Your situation
Do you want to know exactly how much you have to pay in feed-in costs, how these costs are calculated, and which energy companies (yet) do not charge any return costs?
Then read our recent article with useful information and a handy calculation tool.
To follow
Do you want to stay informed of the latest news about solar panels and feed-in costs?
Then follow our X page.
About the author
Thomas van Campenhout is known as the trend watcher in the energy world. With his sharp eye he follows the latest energy news and analyzes recent developments.
More about Thomas
