The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) has projected that energy bills for households are likely to rise in the coming years due to increased transport costs, a new blending requirement for green natural gas, and the implementation of the European emissions trading system ETS2.

Despite these rising costs, ACM emphasizes that households can save significantly—up to 900 euros annually—by switching to more affordable energy contracts. To assist consumers, ACM will publish a monthly overview of all energy contracts, highlighting those with significantly higher prices.

Manon Leijten, a board member of ACM, stated that while energy costs are expected to increase, consumers have the power to reduce their bills by critically evaluating their energy contracts. The authority will monitor energy supplier prices closely and provide consumers with the necessary information to make informed decisions.

To reduce dependence on foreign natural gas and meet climate goals, substantial investments in electricity grids and natural gas networks are required. These costs will be shared among all consumers through transport tariffs, with projections indicating that transport costs for electricity could rise from 250 euros per year to between 600 and 800 euros by 2050.

Additionally, the variable production costs for renewable energy sources like wind and solar are lower than those for natural gas, which may help mitigate future energy bills. An increase in the production and import capacity of liquid natural gas (LNG) is also expected to lower natural gas prices in the coming years.

ACM, as the energy regulator in the Netherlands, oversees the pricing of system operators and ensures compliance with market transparency and integrity rules. The authority monitors the reasonableness of energy prices for households and small users, ensuring that energy suppliers do not excessively mark up their prices.

Recent data from ACM's Monitor on the consumer energy market indicates that several energy suppliers, including Kikker Energie and Scholt Energy, are charging significantly higher prices for their contracts compared to others. This highlights the importance of consumers reviewing their options to avoid overpaying for energy.