Never before did so many consumers switch energy providers

Never before did so many Dutch consumers switch energy providers. One in seven households did so, according to the latest switching figures published by the Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM). Anita Vegter, Member of the Board of ACM, explains: “Consumers that switch stimulate businesses to innovate, and to provide better service and more competitive prices. And consumers benefit from that.”

Savings of more than EUR 400

In 2014, 14.1 percent of all Dutch households switched energy providers. Price is still the most important reason to switch. Those that had never switched before and who switched to the cheapest provider are able to save more than EUR 400 per year. Ms. Vegter adds: “It pays off to switch. Consumers know that, but so do the energy providers. And that ensures that their offers and service remain competitive.” Prices of natural gas and electricity continue to go down. In 2014, the average annual energy bill dropped to EUR 1,699 from EUR 1,715 the year before.

Comparing information easily

Consumers must be able to compare the information of the different energy providers easily. After all, based on this information, they will decide whether or not they wish to switch energy providers and/or contracts. Ms. Vegter continues: “Consumers rely more and more on the idea that switching energy providers is hassle-free and that it will save them money. In recent months, ACM has focused much of its attention to providers presenting correct information, for example, on their websites. With correct information, consumers are able to compare offers properly.” Last year, ACM explained to the energy sector what rules they need to comply with regarding their information. Transparency is crucial in that context. Several businesses that had not presented their offers in a fair and transparent manner, were still forced to do so. ACM will continue to keep a very close watch on all sales channels for energy offers next year.