DTe: Energy Companies Well on the Way to Liberalisation of the Market

The energy companies have taken the necessary measures to optimise the switching process (the transfer from one supplier to another) enable them to process the expected number of applications to switch suppliers from 1 July 2004 onwards in a timely manner. DTe has drawn this conclusion on the basis of the so-called 'quick scan' amongst various energy companies into measures taken to ensure the proper functioning of the switching process.

DTe has also conducted research to ascertain what measures the eight energy companies studied, which include the three large companies, have taken to avoid and solve billing problems. In this regard, DTe has noted that the measures already taken or to be taken by the companies in relation to the billing process should be sufficient to manage problems relating to incorrect, incomplete, untimely and/or non-transparent invoices.

DTe has raised one issue, namely that the companies involved in a switch still do not comply adequately with the agreements on communication. As a result, it is possible that switches will not be realised in time (within the applicable term of 10 days). The sector has since taken the initiative to improve communication between the companies. DTe emphasises that it is up to the companies to ensure that these matters are properly organised before 1 July 2004.

In addition, clarity in the way invoices are set out (transparency) is receiving attention from the companies, as are the meter readings used for the end-of-year settlement. The companies have taken various measures to ensure that this is in order, but as yet the companies have not managed to avoid questions and complaints in this regard. DTe has since opened discussions with the energy companies to formulate unambiguous criteria with which energy bills must comply.

DTe conducted this research partly because the Lower House of the Dutch Parliament requested this from the Minister of Economic Affairs. DTe has already informed the Minister of the results of the scan. DTe considers the smooth processing of switches to be of considerable importance with a view to the further realisation of market forces and competition on the energy market after its liberalisation on 1 July 2004.