Switching Energy Suppliers in Delft
For residents of Delft, switching energy suppliers is an easy way to save on energy bills. The process is free, straightforward, and protected by law. You retain the same network operator, such as Stedin, and the new supplier handles cancellation with the old one. This article for Delft residents explains the step-by-step process, your rights and obligations, plus local tips.
What does switching energy suppliers involve?
Switching means terminating your gas and/or electricity contract with your current supplier and signing a new one elsewhere. The Dutch energy market has been liberalized since 2004, offering choices like Essent, Vattenfall, Eneco, or Budget Energie. Delft residents can freely select the best rates or service without changes to their connection. The regional network operator Stedin in Delft manages the grid and meter.
Legal rules for switching
The rules are set out in the Electricity Act 1998 (art. 2:95 et seq.) and Gas Act (art. 2:70 et seq.). The ACM oversees the market for fair competition. Key points for Delft:
- Switching is always free, with no termination or connection fees.
- Your old supplier must approve within 5 working days.
- For fixed contracts, since July 2023, the maximum penalty is one month's average costs (Energy Consumption Advice 2023).
- Online contracts include a 14-day right of withdrawal (art. 6:230o Civil Code).
More information on the Energy (gas and electricity) page.
Benefits for Delft residents
Delft households save an average of €200-€400 per year, according to the ACM. Comparing is especially smart for variable rates. Use Independer or Pricewise, but watch for hidden catches. In Delft, with many historic buildings, switching pays off extra due to subsidies from the Municipality of Delft.
| Contract type | Advantages of switching | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Variable | Free and immediate | Prices fluctuate sharply |
| Fixed (1-3 years) | Fixed price, welcome discount | Possible penalty for early termination |
Step-by-step guide for Delft
- Compare rates: Use ACM tools or KeuzeGids.nl, based on your usage from the annual statement.
- Select new offer: Online or by phone, providing postcode 2611-2629 and meter readings.
- Let them handle termination: The new supplier notifies the old one (effective within 30 days).
- Submit meter readings: To both parties on the end date.
- Check final bills: Final settlement within 6 weeks.
The process takes 2-4 weeks. Example: Mrs. Jansen from Delft (3000 kWh electricity, 1200 m³ gas) switched from Essent to Budget Energie in 2023 and saved €350/year with a fixed contract and discount.
Rights and obligations
Your rights as a Delft resident
- No blocking: Suppliers must cooperate (Electricity Act art. 2:96).
- Solar energy net metering: Continues until 2027.
- Compensation for errors: Claim via Energy Disputes Committee or Legal Aid Office Delft.
- 14-day cooling-off period for online contracts.
Your obligations
- Provide accurate meter readings.
- Pay penalty for fixed contracts (max. €100-€200).
- Settle any outstanding balances.
Example: Mr. De Vries from Delft had a fixed contract with 6 months remaining. The ACM reduced his €150 penalty after his complaint.
Potential pitfalls
Be aware of 'closing contract' for arrears via Stedin. Price guarantees may lapse during market peaks. Post-2022 crisis, rates are volatile; opt for fixed for stability.
FAQs for Delft
Is switching always free?
Yes for variable; for fixed, max. one month's costs. Check terms or seek advice from Legal Aid Office Delft.
Old supplier refuses?
Not allowed. Report to ACM (acm.nl) or Consumentenlijn (088-0707070). For escalation: District Court of The Hague.
Reset smart meter?
No, Stedin manages it. Provide readings.
Rental property in Delft?
Consult landlord. Not possible with district heating; see tenancy law or Municipality of Delft.
Tips for Delft residents
- Compare annually: Rate changes on 1 July/1 January.
- Welcome bonuses: €100-€300 with term commitment.
- Monitor usage: Stedin app.
- Fixed contract when prices fall.
- Local advice: Legal Aid Office Delft or Municipality of Delft for subsidies.
Related: Consumer law, Energy contracts, ACM.