Energy and water consumption is a hot item these last months. It is a life necessity, which we take for granted in the west. A year ago, the market for energy was stable, now the market is out of control due to the war. And, most of us will think: what can I do to reduce the amount of energy we use in our house holding.
What is the average consumption of electricity, water and gas in the Netherlands?
Did you hear of “Jan modaal”? In Dutch, this name is used when someone has an average income and lifestyle. Jan has a wife, lives in a terraced house (most likely from the 1960s or 1980s). He lives together with his girlfriend or wife, drives a Volkswagen Polo and has 1.3 children.
However, most of us are not average. We are unique, and so is our family. The energy and gas consumption differs from family to family, and house to house.
So to give you an idea, here is an image, based on the data from CBS.
Are you pleased with the outcome? Are you using less? Or, is there some work to be done?
The first step: check your behaviour
Nowadays, many people want to reduce their use of natural resources. Others, want to reduce their gas bills due to the high prices.
Let’s compare your use with others. What are your habits? Like to take long showers, or love to sleep in a cold bedroom? Your behaviour will influence your consumption of gas, water and electricity. You can live in a barely insulated house, and still don’t use a lot. Due to the fact that you like cold showers, and 14 degrees Celsius is warm enough for you in the winter.
However, this may sound extreme to you.
A few months ago, I read the book Tiny habits by BJ Fogg. And, what struck me, is that changing habits can be harsh. In his book, BJ Fogg gives the advice to start with mini-steps. For example, you always shower too long. First step: buy a timer. Second step: hang it on the wall. Just, to give you a reminder. The next step would be: to use the timer.
What is the behaviour you want to change?
Here are some ideas:
– Shower a minute shorter
– Put the thermostat low an hour before you go to bed.
– Closing the doors
– Repair the dripping tap (saves you up to 2000 litres of water a year)
– Warm locally instead of the whole space.
Reducing by improving
Have you ever checked the energy label from your house? Or, where do you feel cold in your house when it is cold outside?
By improving the insulation and heating system in your house, you can save a lot of energy.
Comparing prices
I know, for now this is almost impossible. As, many suppliers have high prices. However, if you are moving into a new house, comparing prices can still help. For water, the government will choose for you.
Variable contract
Due to the current situation, when your fixed contract ends, you can only choose a variable contract. Twice a year, the rates are changed, but sometimes monthly.
Fixed contract
Until a few months ago, a fixed contract for 1, 3 or 5 years was very normal. And, in the future, as the energy markets are stabilizing again, this will be a good option again. The variable prices are in most cases higher than the fixed ones. A good website to compare prices is gaslicht.com.
How to compare?
Costs per kWh electricity/m3 gas
In this rate, the actual energy costs, energy tax, extra tax for sustainable energy and VAT should be mentioned.
Fixed delivery costs
Even though these costs are fixed, they can differ from company to company.
Network costs
Reduction on energy taxes
Every household gets a reduction in energy taxes. In 2022, it is around €825.00.
Energy return rates
This is only applicable if you have solar panels. The rates can vary very much.
What is your next step?
Do you want to reduce your energy and water consumption? The first little step is liking this Facebook page. Here you will find more easy steps.
Are you in for big steps, but don’t know where to start? Just download the renovation guide for free here.
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