Average increase of tariffs for regional network operators: 8.9 per cent

The tariffs of the regional network operators of natural gas and electricity will, on average, increase by 8.9 per cent as of January 2012. This increase results from the tariff decisions for the period of 2011-2013, which the Netherlands Competition Authority (NMa) today published. Transport of gas and electricity by regional network operators is a specific line item on energy bills. Homes and businesses thus pay for this service through their energy suppliers. As a result, the average household energy bill will increase by approximately EUR 23 on an annual basis.

The average increase of 8.9 per cent has two causes: 6.3 per cent comes from the method decisions and the so-called x-factor decisions (efficiency-stimulating tariff cuts), and 2.6 per cent is due to inflation. Actual tariff increases may vary among network operators.




The NMa regulates the regional network operators of natural gas and electricity. The NMa in 2012 will look more closely into costs and earnings trends of the regional network operators. This investigation aims to determine whether projected cost trends are in line with actual cost trends. In future years, the NMa could re-adjust the regional network operators’ earnings should the outcome of this investigation require such re-adjustments.




Network operators and other interested parties can file objections and appeals against these tariff decisions. Regardless of whether objections are filed against the tariff decisions, the tariff increases will nevertheless go through as of 2012. If objections are filed and declared well-founded, any overpayments will be settled with future tariffs.