Expats, gas, electricity, water and service costs in the Netherlands
Living in the Netherlands as an expat can come with a lot of expenses, from housing to groceries, transportation, and other miscellaneous costs.
One aspect of Dutch living that can be quite different from many other countries is the way that gas, electricity, and water are charged. Here, we’ll take a closer look at these expenses and how they work in the Netherlands.
Gas and Electricity
Gas and electricity in the Netherlands are typically supplied by different companies, so you may have separate bills for these utilities. The cost of these utilities can be quite high in the Netherlands, which can be a surprise for many expats who are used to lower prices in their home countries. This can be especially true during the colder months when you’ll be using more energy to heat your home.
The cost of gas and electricity can vary depending on your usage and the rates you have selected. Certain rates may be more expensive at certain times of the day, while others may have higher standing charges. Some plans may also come with discounts if you use a certain amount of energy per year. The best way to determine which plan is best for you is to compare different options from different providers.
Water
Water in the Netherlands is typically provided by a single supplier for each area, so you’ll only have one bill for this utility. The cost of water in the Netherlands is generally lower than that of gas and electricity, but it can still be a significant expense.
Like gas and electricity, the cost of water in the Netherlands is based on usage. However, the Dutch government regulates the price of water, so there is less variation between providers. This means that it is generally easier to compare prices and find the best deal.
