Dutch variable gas prices now 12% above pre-war levels after 7% monthly hike

Energy companies in the Netherlands have raised prices on variable gas contracts by about 7% this month, pushing tariffs 12% higher than before the war in the Middle East, according to the Authority for Consumers & Markets (ACM).

Variable gas rates had remained steady since the conflict began, with suppliers typically adjusting them four times per year. The July increase marks the first significant change, catching many households off guard.

The impact on electricity has been more limited due to the growing share of green energy, with variable electricity tariffs rising about 3% as of July 1.

Consumer behavior has shifted notably: many switched to fixed contracts shortly after the war started, and supplier-switching activity has stayed unusually low for months. Most variable-contract holders chose fixed deals with their existing providers instead.

The ACM urged consumers to carefully weigh which contract type suits them, noting that fixed contracts guarantee rates for a set period and offer payment certainty but provide no benefit if market prices drop.

Article and image source: nltimes.nl