Taxation & Financing

The energy market is strongly influenced by taxation and tax incentives. Our members are the largest investors in the energy transition. In addition, the energy suppliers play the role of tax collector on behalf of the government. The energy system is changing rapidly and the tax system around it must be able to move flexibly with it.

Energy suppliers are liable for energy taxes. They pass on the tax to the consumers on behalf of the government. The aim of this energy tax is twofold: Firstly, it encourages energy saving. Secondly, it raises funds for the public purse. In the process, much attention is paid to energy bills and their affordability.

Energie-Nederland advocates for a change in the method by which tax rates are determined, such that they are based on consumption of energy (kWh) instead of on consumption of volume (m3). This would make it easier for the consumer to compare the different tax rates of the different energy carriers. What’s more, Energie-Nederland is in favor of more balanced tax rates for gas and electricity per unit of energy supplied. The thought behind this is that the tax rate per energy unit of gas will be marginally higher than the rate for electricity.

The energy transition requires major investments. The energy companies who make these investments need a stable investment climate for the long term. This is crucial for maintaining a competitive environment with surrounding countries. For example, Energie-Nederland advocates bringing interest deductions in line with surrounding countries. In addition, the tax system must contribute to the objectives and be feasible for both the market and the end user.

Energie-Nederland believes it is important to contribute to this. The industry association has set the goal of collaborating on a future-proof energy tax, which should allow room for new energy carriers and taxes energy consumption at the end user.