Moving House: Your Energy Transfer Guide in the Netherlands for Expats

Energy Transfer Essentials for Your Dutch Move

Properly managing your energy contracts when moving is crucial. It ensures you don't pay for energy used by the next occupant at your old address and that you have a supply at your new home from day one. In the Netherlands, this involves clear communication with your energy supplier and understanding key dates and meter readings.

The process can differ slightly depending on whether you're staying with the same supplier or switching to a new one for your new address.

Scenario 1: Moving with the Same Energy Supplier

If you're happy with your current energy provider and they operate nationwide, you can often transfer your contract to your new address.

Steps to Transfer Your Contract:

• Inform Your Supplier: Contact your current energy supplier as soon as your moving date is confirmed (ideally 2-4 weeks in advance). Provide both your old and new addresses, and the exact date of transfer.
• Old Address Meter Readings: On your moving day, take a clear photo of the final meter readings for both electricity and gas at your old address. Submit these to your supplier immediately. This ensures your final bill is accurate.
• New Address Meter Readings: On the day you receive the keys to your new home, take initial meter readings for both electricity and gas. Submit these to your supplier. These will be the starting point for your new contract.
• Final Settlement for Old Address: You will receive a final bill (eindafrekening) for your old address, typically within 6 weeks, based on your final meter readings.
• New Contract at New Address: Your existing contract conditions will generally apply to your new address, though your monthly advance might be adjusted based on the new property's estimated consumption.

Scenario 2: Switching Energy Suppliers When Moving

Moving is an excellent opportunity to compare the market and potentially switch to a new provider offering a better deal or more sustainable energy options.

Steps to Switch Energy Suppliers:

• Choose New Supplier: Use an online energy comparison website (energievergelijker) to find a new provider for your new address. Apply for a new contract for your new home.
• Inform Old Supplier: Contact your current energy supplier to cancel your contract for your old address. Provide them with your moving date and new address.
  • Fixed-Term Contracts: If you have a fixed-term contract, inquire about early termination fees ("opzegvergoeding"). However, often these fees are waived if you can prove you are moving outside their supply area or leaving the country.
  • Variable Contracts: These usually have a short notice period (e.g., 30 days) and no termination fee.
• Meter Readings at Old Address: On your moving day, take final meter readings for your old address. Submit these to your *old* supplier.
• Meter Readings at New Address: On the day you get keys, take initial meter readings for your *new* address. Submit these to your *new* supplier.
• The New Supplier Handles the Rest: Your new supplier will usually coordinate the transfer and inform the network operator.

Important Dates and Information for Energy Transfer

• Transfer Date: The exact date you officially leave your old property and gain access to your new one. This is crucial for accurate billing.
• Meter Readings: The most important piece of information. Ensure they are accurate and supported by photos/videos.
• EAN Codes: Every energy connection has a unique 18-digit EAN code (one for electricity, one for gas). You can find these on your energy bill or through Eancodeboek.nl. These codes identify your connection points.
• Network Operator: Your regional network operator (e.g., Liander, Stedin, Enexis) is responsible for the physical grid and meter readings, regardless of your supplier.

Expat Energy Moving Checklist

• 1 Month Before Move: Decide if you're staying with your current supplier or switching. Inform your current supplier of your move date. If switching, start comparing new providers.

• Moving Day:

  1. Take final meter readings (and photos) at your old address.
  2. Take initial meter readings (and photos) at your new address.
  3. Submit readings to relevant suppliers.

• After Move:

  1. Expect a final bill for your old address within 6 weeks.
  2. Monitor your first few monthly advances at the new address. If they seem too high/low, contact your new supplier to adjust.