Saving Energy in 2026: Tips & Choosing the Best Energy Supplier

Why saving energy matters more than ever

Energy prices in the Netherlands have risen sharply in recent years. An average household can easily pay more than €2.500 a year for electricity and gas. Fortunately, there are many ways to reduce your energy bill — from small changes to your daily habits to smart investments.

Want to know how much you currently pay? Use our energy costs calculator to calculate your monthly expenses straight away.

The 5 biggest energy users in your home

Before you start saving, it is important to know where your energy goes:

• Heating (gas) — Accounts for 60-70% of your total energy costs

• Hot water — Showers and baths use more than you think

• Fridge and freezer — Run 24/7 and together use 300-500 kWh per year

• Washing machine and tumble dryer — The tumble dryer in particular uses a lot of energy

• Lighting — Old incandescent bulbs use up to 10x more energy than LEDs

Quick savings: tips that work straight away

Set your heating wisely

Turning your thermostat down by 1 degree can easily save you €60-80 per year. Only heat the rooms you use and close doors. Invest in a smart thermostat that automatically adjusts your heating based on whether you are at home.

Take shorter, cooler showers

A 5-minute shower instead of 10 minutes saves around €150 per year on gas and water. A water-saving shower head costs just €15-30 and pays for itself within a month.

Use LED lighting everywhere

Replace all traditional bulbs with LEDs. An LED bulb uses 80% less electricity and lasts up to 25.000 hours. With 20 bulbs in your home, you save €50-80 per year.

Tackle standby power consumption

Devices left on standby together use up to €100 per year in electricity. Use switched extension leads and turn devices off completely. TVs, games consoles and computers are particular culprits.

Wash and dry wisely

Wash at 30°C instead of 60°C — your clothes will be just as clean. Use a washing line instead of the tumble dryer whenever possible. This saves €40-70 per year.

Investing in energy savings

Solar panels: payback period in 2026

Solar panels are one of the best investments you can make. Average cost for a set of 10 panels: €5.000-€7.000. The payback period is currently 5-7 years, after which you benefit for 20+ years.

Calculate how much solar panels could save you with our energy costs calculator — move the solar panel slider and see the difference straight away.

Insulation: the foundation of energy savings

Good insulation is the most effective way to reduce gas consumption:

• Roof insulation — Savings: 15-20% on gas consumption (€150-300/year)

• Cavity wall insulation — Savings: 15-25% on gas consumption (€150-350/year)

• Floor insulation — Savings: 5-10% on gas consumption (€50-150/year)

• HR++ glazing — Savings: 10-15% on gas consumption (€100-200/year)

Heat pump: moving away from gas

A hybrid heat pump costs €4.000-€7.000 but replaces 50-60% of your gas consumption with electricity. At current gas prices, you save €300-600 per year. An all-electric heat pump removes your need for gas entirely.

Choosing the best energy supplier

What should you look for?

These are the key factors when choosing an energy supplier:

• Price per kWh and per m³ — Always compare the all-inclusive price, including fixed supply charges

• Contract type — A fixed contract provides certainty, while a variable contract may work out cheaper

• Green electricity — Will you choose non-renewable or green electricity? The price difference is often minimal

• Customer service — Availability and review scores from existing customers

• Extras — Some suppliers offer smart thermostats, solar panel installation or EV charging points

Fixed or variable contract?

A fixed contract (1-3 years) protects you against price rises. You know exactly what you pay. A variable contract follows market prices — you benefit when prices fall, but pay more when they rise.

A dynamic contract (such as those offered by Tibber) charges the hourly energy market rate. Ideal if you can be flexible about when you use electricity and schedule charging or washing for cheaper periods.

How to switch

Switching to a different energy supplier is straightforward:

Compare providers — See our energy comparison for an up-to-date overview

Check your current contract — Note the notice period (usually 30 days)

Sign up with the new supplier — They will arrange the switch

Your energy supply is never interrupted — The network operator ensures you always have electricity and gas

The whole process takes an average of 2-4 weeks and costs you nothing.

How much could you save?

Use our free tools to get a clearer picture:

• Energy Costs Calculator — Calculate your monthly energy costs

• Compare Energy Suppliers — Find the best provider

• Monthly Expenses Calculator — Calculate all your fixed monthly expenses

Energy savings for businesses

Are you a business owner? Then the potential savings are even greater. Business energy contracts are often more flexible, and additional grants are available for sustainability improvements. Use the business energy costs calculator for a tailored calculation.

Conclusion

Saving energy does not have to be complicated. Start with the free tips (turn down the thermostat, take shorter showers, use LEDs), then consider investing in solar panels or insulation. Always compare energy suppliers too — switching could save you hundreds of euros a year.

Start today by calculating your energy costs and browse all our money tips for more ways to save.