Dutch Energy Market Shifts: Fixed-Rate Contracts Disappear as Gas Prices Surge

Dutch energy suppliers are rapidly scaling back fixed-rate energy contracts in response to soaring gas prices driven by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The shift leaves consumers facing uncertainty as they navigate a volatile energy market reminiscent of the crisis following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Gas Price Increases and Geopolitical Factors

Gas prices in the Netherlands have experienced significant increases, rising 36% on Monday and 30% on Tuesday, according to broadcaster NOS. This surge is directly linked to developments in the Middle East, specifically the US and Israeli attacks on Iran and Iran’s subsequent closure of the Strait of Hormuz – a critical shipping route for liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports from Qatar, one of the world’s largest gas producers.

Energy Suppliers Respond: Fixed-Rate Contracts Limited or Scrapped

Several major energy providers are adjusting their offerings in response to the price volatility. Nltimes.nl reports that all 24 energy suppliers on comparison site Overstappen.nl have adjusted their fixed contracts in the past two days, increasing rates and reducing cashbacks for new customers.

• Vattenfall: Initially stopped issuing fixed-price contracts but has resumed the option for existing customers.
• Eneco & Oxxio: Have removed their three-year fixed-rate contracts.
• Vattenfall, Powerpeer, Clean Energy, VrijopNaam, Pure Energie, and Engie: Have withdrawn their fixed-rate contracts altogether.
• Essent: Continues to offer fixed contracts but is uncertain how long this will continue.

Consumer Behavior and Expert Advice

The rising prices are prompting consumers to seek the stability of fixed-rate contracts, but availability is dwindling. According to Overstappen.nl, the current average energy prices are €0.23 per kWh and €1.15 per m³.

Koen Kuijper from Energievergelijk.nl advises consumers to avoid making hasty decisions and wait for the situation in Iran to stabilize. He notes that fixed tariffs have risen sharply due to geopolitical unrest and switching discounts have largely disappeared.

Government Perspective and Market Resilience

Despite the price increases, Dutch Minister of Finance Eelco Heinen believes the Netherlands is better equipped to handle rising gas prices than in 2022. Nltimes.nl reports that the Netherlands has diversified its gas imports, relying more on the United States and Norway, and has some domestic gas reserves.

Yet, energy suppliers are already experiencing a surge in customer inquiries. Essent has seen call volumes double, and Vattenfall reports a “significant increase” in calls from concerned customers.

Current Energy Prices

As of March 4, 2026, the current energy prices in the Netherlands are €0.23 per kWh and €1.15 per m³, as calculated by Overstappen.nl based on the 20 cheapest energy suppliers.