The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) has released its latest Monitor on the consumer energy market, revealing that fixed contracts for natural gas and electricity have seen price increases of 1.5% to 3% compared to last month. In contrast, prices for variable contracts have largely remained unchanged.

This rise in fixed contract prices is linked to colder weather and ongoing geopolitical tensions, which have driven wholesale natural gas prices up to €54/MWh. Consumers with dynamic energy contracts will experience these price fluctuations immediately, while those with variable contracts will see gradual adjustments based on market trends.

Energy suppliers adopt different purchasing strategies for fixed and variable contracts. Fixed contracts typically involve suppliers purchasing energy close to the contract offer, allowing them to hedge against price increases while providing consumers with stable pricing. Conversely, variable contracts often involve earlier purchases for shorter supply periods, leading to potential price increases if market costs rise.

Dynamic contracts reflect wholesale market changes almost instantly, with consumers paying the day-ahead market price plus a fee. The ACM has noted a rise in the number of households opting for dynamic contracts, which now account for 6% of Dutch households, equating to approximately 423,000 customers.

ACM is also monitoring the reasonableness of prices in the energy market, particularly for variable contracts that appear significantly higher than others. Additionally, the filling rate of natural gas storages in the Netherlands has dropped to 38%, falling short of the European Union's minimum requirement of 39%. The Dutch Ministry of Climate Policy and Green Growth may need to take action if this trend continues.

As the ACM continues to oversee market developments, it emphasizes the importance of fair and transparent pricing in the energy sector.