Ahhh Friday, it’s time to finally unwind, stretch out your arms — and enjoy the sound of torrential rain and thunder.
Yep, forget basking in the sunshine that was teasing many of us yesterday, this week’s forecast is as follows:
Either leave your home and embrace a runny nose, soggy clothes, and a 1 in 775,000 chance of getting hit by lightning — or stay indoors where it’s dry and enjoy some loud thunder ASMR. ⛈
Thunderstorms throughout the country
In fact, NU.nl reports that no matter where you are in the Netherlands, you have a high chance of enjoying the rumble of thunder today, with a code yellow due to thunderstorms in place for the entire country.
However, those of us in the southeast will be the first to enjoy the soothing sounds, with storms set to start in the morning.
Don’t forget the rain and hail
Of course, with it nearing the end of May, we can’t forget the chance of rain — and even the odd sprinkling of hail!
This is in spite of temperatures sitting between 17 and 22 degrees. 🤷♀️
Heading out after work? Don’t forget your umbrella, as the showers are set to last throughout the evening, night and even into Saturday morning for those of us in the north.
Don’t throw your whole weekend away, however. Once the code yellow ends after today, the weather is expected to be delightfully changeable for the rest of the weekend.
Oh, Dutch weather — it’ll always keep you guessing!
The competition for student housing in the Netherlands is fiercer than ever, and prices are only getting steeper. Now, the capital city has been overtaken as the location with the most expensive rooms.
While the student housing crisis isn’t anything new, the rental platform Kamernet’s figures show it’s only getting worse in 2024, NU.nl reports.
But the biggest shock? Haarlem is now even more expensive than Amsterdam when it comes to price per square metre, at a whopping €51.
Where do these increases come from?
Simply put (but no less shocking), there are too many students for the rooms available.
Last year, each available student room had an average of 18 applicants. Now, it’s 20 (!).
But affordable rooms are increasingly hard to find. Kamernet CEO Djordy Seelmann believes the government’s current housing policy is not sufficiently focused on adding rooms and apartments.
He told NU.nl, “Repurposing existing spaces such as office buildings or vacant buildings into residential spaces is a sensible strategy that increases supply and can improve affordability in the long term.”
What are your thoughts on rising student housing prices in the Netherlands? Tell us in the comments below!
If you live in the Netherlands, you know how hard it can be to get an appointment with your (slightly intimidating) Dutch General Practitioner (GP).
Well, part of the reason for this is that there are too many people for too few physicians, and more and more of them have a tendency to not show up for their appointments.
So, healthcare professionals in Amsterdam are getting frustrated.
According to the AD, to set an end to this trend, some Dutch GPs are now imposing fines on patients who fail to show up for their appointments or don’t cancel in a timely manner.
The no-show fine
Healthcare providers already experience a lot of pressure in the Netherlands, “so a no-show is very annoying,” says Paulien van Hessen, director of the Amsterdam Physicians’ Alliance.
Naturally, patients who don’t cancel their appointments in time keep slots occupied that could have been used to tend to other patients. That’s why a fine is meant to have a preventative effect.
“We do our best to help everyone as quickly and as well as possible. As a patient, you can help us with that by cancelling in time when the demand is no longer needed.”
How much is the fine?
While more Amsterdam GPs have begun introducing no-show fines, there are not (yet) any fixed rules regarding them.
Fines are set by physicians themselves and dealt with outside of health insurers. They mostly range from €10 to €30, but they may double in price if a patient is a repeat offender or misses a longer consultation.
Not everyone’s in favour
The Dutch Patient Federation, which represents patients’ interests, is not a fan of a fine system for missed appointments. As spokesperson Tijmen Hendriksen tells the AD, “We think that these fines do not benefit the relationship between doctor and patient.”
“Reasons why patients do not show up can vary widely. For example, this can also arise from a fear of treatment or costs. You don’t want to punish people with a fine for that,” he says.
Many doctors agree, arguing that the time and effort spent chasing a €10 fine are not worth it. As Van Hessen puts it: “We really have better things to do: we need to provide care. It’s busy enough.”
What do you think of a no-show fine for missed doctor’s appointments? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Say hoi to exciting cashback deals and Dutch interest rates that may actually make saving money worthwhile. (Yes, we’re shocked, too. 😳)
For most internationals, one of the first steps when moving to the Netherlands is opening a Dutch bank account. Amongst a sea of banking institutions, it can be hard to determine which one will give you the most bang for your buck.
But while most banks seem fond of taking money, one Dutch bank now gives us money — in the form of cashback!
Wait a second, what’s cashback?
Simply put, cashback refers to a reward system where cardholders get a certain percentage of money back when they make purchases.
Did you spend €100 on public transport last week? bunq says, “Here’s €2 back!” — and trust us, that adds up pretty quickly!
Earn money by spending it? “Ja, hoor!” says bunq
If that sounds too good to be true… (drumroll please), it isn’t! Dutch banking heavyweight bunq just updated the new rules around this handy dandy feature.
How does it work? All you need to do is be an Elite subscriber, which gives you 1% cashback at restaurants and bars AND 2% cashback on public transportation!
Free. Money. Need we say more? Image: bunq
You’ll need to use your Credit Mastercard (not Maestro) to be eligible for cashback, but the good news on that is that the Netherlands is phasing out Maestro cards — so you can get stacks of cash back!
Money back in your pocket? In THIS economy? Lekkerrrr. 👏
Frustratingly, however, Dutch banks often treat interest rates like a game of limbo: trying to see how low they can go. (And yes, they’re winning!)
Meanwhile, bunq’s healthy 2.01% interest rate means the bank offers some of the best savings interest rates currently on offer in the Dutch market.
But that’s not all! 👇
We may have found your banking BFF
As romantic as the idea of living abroad is, the lifestyle comes with its share of questions. What’s the best bank in the Netherlands? Will I need to pay a fortune in extra fees? How can I stay within budget?
Getting paid at the end of the week for just using bunq? Sure, sign us right up! Image: bunq
With bunq, internationals have access to all the great features that put the ‘cash’ in ‘cashback’. A bunq Elite account gets you:
ZERO added fees when travelling abroad,
Travel insurance for you and your family while travelling,
Spending and saving features in up to 14 currencies,
Hassle-free international transfers straight from your bunq app,
Up to 25 virtual Mastercards for secure online shopping,
2.01% interest on your savings (with seamless withdrawals!).
Ever wish you’d packed something to help your rumbling stomach mid-train journey, like an apple or an extra sandwich? This Dutch woman takes it one step further and makes the carriage her kitchen.
When TikTokker Isabelle Joëlla gets hungry on the train, she whips out her electric pots and pans and cooks anything from chicken drumsticks to spicy noodles, RTL shares.
But before she hits reheat, she makes sure to hit record. 🤳
Just for hen-tertainment?
Isabelle’s TikToks might be different from other non-transport-based cooking content, but that doesn’t stop her going viral.
While Isabelle believes she is doing nothing wrong because there are no rules to stop her, passengers and professionals alike are appalled.
Chicken frying, conductor sighing
It’s not just the “anti-social” smell or the potential fire hazard that makes Isabelle’s choice of train snack not so finger-lickin’ good for those around her. 🍗
For NS spokesperson Oscar van Elferen, it’s about not being a burden to others and knowing that “you should not create unsafe situations or nuisances” — as he tells RTL.
If Isabelle is already planning her next instalment (turkey on the tram or BBQ on the bus?), she might have to think again.
While there might not be any explicit rules against frying a chicken leg on the train, van Elferen suggests it “crosses the border” because most people understand it’s not the right thing to do.
Some people find Isabelle’s actions funny, but clearly, others think this is the behaviour of a bad egg. 🐣
How would you react if you saw someone frying chicken on the train? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
So, it’s officially happened: Dutch house prices have just reached their all-time high — in the history of Dutch housing. With this, we’ve surpassed the previous record from two years ago. (Hoo… ray? 🥲)
According to the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) in the Netherlands, the price of homes for sale reached a record high in April.
Unfortunately, what feels like a sick April Fools’ joke is actually a reality. According to the AD, the average transaction price for a home is now a whopping €453,984.
This is 7.5% higher than last year and 0.7% higher than the previous record from July 2022.
Why… oh why?
Why do we have this issue? You guessed it: there are too few available homes in the Netherlands and too many people looking to buy one.
On top of that, over the past year, mortgage interest rates have slightly dropped while wages have increased, causing chaos in the Dutch housing market.
With around 300,000 homes too few, competition among home buyers is tough. Young first-time buyers are mostly affected by this.
In fact, as a single starter in the Netherlands, you currently have access to only about 3% of the housing market.
Looking for the perfect spot for a summer getaway from the Netherlands? Look no further than Oostende, a Belgian gem sitting on the coast of the Flemish North Sea.
For those craving more than sun-soaked beaches and traditional tourist attractions, Oostende offers a world of edgy art, cultural entertainment, and plenty of fun activities to do with the whole fam.
How do I know this? Because I visited Oostende! So stroll along with me on this written tour of Oostende as I tell you about all the things you absolutely cannot miss.
Discover unique street art with the Crystal Ship tour
Crystal Ship turns the streets of Oostende into a giant open-air museum with some of the most impressive street art I’ve ever come across.
What used to be mundane city walls are now canvases for graffiti art by artists from around the globe. Every corner has a story to tell, and each piece of art is bigger and bolder than the previous one. 👇
Street art big and small — anywhere you look! Image: Abuzer van Leeuwen
The town offers a handy dandy app or booklet for visitors, which allows you to guide yourself past the impressive art. It boasts quite a few different routes, so you can make your tour as crazy as you want it to be. ⚡️
And speaking of art: one piece you can’t miss (partly because it’s red, giant, and right on the beach promenade) is ‘Rock Strangers’ by Arne Quinze!
Wanna see even more art? Oostende has got your back!
Right now, Oostende is part of the Beaufort art festival, a three-yearly art event for which international artists create exciting installations in 10 Flemish coastal cities, always in close relationship with the sea and the coast. 🌊
In each of the participating coastal cities, one large work and one smaller project are on display until November 3. Dutch artist Femmy Otten is shining with her installation in Oostende. 👇
What a sight! Image: Beeldbank West-Vlaanderen
Live out your sailing dreams on the Mercator ship
For those seeking a more immersive experience, I recommend a visit to the Mercator ship. This huge ship stands tall as a symbol of Oostende’s maritime past. ⚓️
Once a training ship for the Belgian merchant navy, the Mercator is now a floating museum, welcoming visitors to relive its legacy. It’s permanently docked in the Oostende yacht port, an area you’ll want to check out when visiting anyways.
What a sight to see! Image: Abuzer van Leeuwen
Climb up the gangway and you’ll find yourself transported back in time, tracing the steps of sailors who once ventured into the vast unknown. Mercator offers a unique experience and truly gives a feel of what life was like on such a vessel.
Get a glimpse into Oostende’s past at Fort Napoleon
A short journey from the city centre, Fort Napoleon stands on top of a dune, guarding the secrets of Oostende’s history. As the name suggests, this fortified structure was commissioned by Napoleon himself — but it’s more than just an imposing facade.
Fort Napoleon offers a glimpse into a time of war and strategic defence, letting you venture through underground passageways and peer through narrow slits used by soldiers in the past.
A blast from the past. Image: DutchReview
Believe it or not: this is also a surprisingly good place to visit with kids. At the time of our visit, they had a nice interactive children’s exhibit set up.
It’s also a great idea to enjoy lunch here, as the attached restaurant was heellekker (as so often is the case in Flanders)!
On a less romantic but more practical note: there’s a free parking lot next to Fort Napoleon with ample space, making it perfect for your first or last stop when visiting Oostende. 😉
Be inspired by the art of the Belgian master James Ensor
Back in the heart of the city, the Ensor House celebrates the works of the renowned Belgian artist, James Ensor, who is famous for his unconventional (and sometimes bizarre) paintings. 🎨
The museum houses an extensive collection of his masterpieces, each revealing a new layer of eccentricity and complexity. A must-see for art enthusiasts!
Even the architecture is artsy! Image: DutchReview
Tip: Time for food? Just five minutes away from the James Ensor House, you’ll find the rooftop terrace at the ‘Grote Post’ building. I recommend this place for excellent food and some of the best views Oostende has to offer!
Oostende’s Ensor year
James Ensor’s artistic brilliance is not only on display at the James Ensor House. In fact, the entire city is currently celebrating the “Ensor Year”, as 2024 marks 75 years since the artist’s passing.
The year-long event hosts an array of exhibitions, performances, and festivities that pay homage to the Ensor’s avant-garde spirit. More info about all of this can be found here.
Take a stroll along the beach and promenade
Of course, a visit to Oostende isn’t complete without a stroll along the shores of its pristine beach and promenade. 🌊
Sink your toes into the sand, breathe in the salty air, and enjoy your well-deserved break. The Oostende beach is long and wide, so it’s easy to secure yourself a stay with a stunning beach view.
We stayed at the Andromeda Hotel and were treated to this glorious view. Image: Abuzer van Leeuwen
There are the Venetian galleries (nicely dubbed ‘gaanderijen’ in Flemish) and the grand Thermea Palace Hotel to stroll past.
And if you want to treat your kids and yourself to more than walking, then you can rent a 4-person skelter and cruise the promenade in style!
They see me rollin’… 😎 Image: Abuzer van Leeuwen
How to get to Oostende from the Netherlands?
Now that you’ve been enticed let’s tell you how to get here, shall we? If you’re travelling to Oostende from Amsterdam, there are two easy options: by car or by train.
Travelling to Oostende by car
The drive from Amsterdam to Oostende takes approximately three hours, offering you the freedom to explore the picturesque landscapes of Belgium along the way (or honestly, if timed wrong, get stuck in the Antwerp rush hour, don’t do that).
Travelling to Oostende by train
On the other hand, the train journey is also convenient. High-speed trains connect Amsterdam Central Station to Oostende in around three hours, providing a comfortable and somewhat stress-free experience.
A trip to Oostende is not just another standard Flemish city trip. It’s good in the summer for the beach-lovers, but it’s just as great in the winter, as it’s much more than just a beach town.
This place truly has something to offer for everyone: from urban art to maritime history and the good ol’ beach (oh, and tons of delicious food and drinks).
For more info and the Oostende activity calendar, check out Visit Ostend. Veel plezier!
Have you ever visited Oostende? What’s your favourite Belgian town to trip to? Let us know in the comments!
With a shift towards sustainability and rising utility costs, many people in the Netherlands are looking for more ways to generate clean, affordable energy. It’s no surprise, then, that solar panels are growing in popularity.
Inderdaad, solar panels have become relatively affordable and widely accessible, not to mention the wonders they’ll do for your bank account and the environment!
Here’s what you should know about installing and owning solar panels in the Netherlands.
The pros and cons of installing solar panels in the Netherlands
Of course, everything comes with its advantages and disadvantages, including solar panels. But don’t let that stop you from considering a leap to solar energy.
The advantages of installing solar panels in the Netherlands
Let’s start with the best things: the advantages of Dutch solar panels!
✅ You’ll save money on your electricity bill
An obvious pro is that generating your own electricity at home means a cheaper electricity bill — and we all need this nowadays.
Your electricity bill will decrease as you use more solar energy from your solar panels. Image: Freepik
You’ll be using electricity generated straight from your solar panels and consuming less electricity from the main energy grid, meaning you can replace part of your usual payments with a pat on the back instead.
Another reason to consider installing solar panels in the Netherlands right now is that the Dutch government will actually foot part of the bill.
Currently, the Dutch government is offering a sustainable energy investment grant (ISDE) to compensate for the cost of energy-saving and sustainable installations. This includes heat pumps, biomass boilers, and solar panels, of course.
The Dutch government extended the Investment Subsidy for Sustainable Energy (ISDE), and there’s up to €30 million available for the purchase and installation of solar panels.
As of January 1, 2023, the VAT on solar panels is 0% if they are delivered and installed on or near a home. This means you don’t have to pay VAT for the solar panels!
✅ Earn money back by selling your electricity to the grid
Did you know that if your solar panels produce excess electricity, you can actually get money back from your provider by selling the electricity back into the energy grid?
Who doesn’t love to earn a little extra money? Image: Freepik
Yep, you don’t just save money by installing solar panels, you can also actually make money.
✅ You’ll be more sustainable (and give your home a better rating!)
And of course, who doesn’t love a good sustainable practice? Having solar panels installed means you’ll rely less on fossil fuels, which is great for the environment. 🍃
Not only that, but solar panels can increase your house’s energy rating — increasing resale value.
The disadvantages of installing solar panels in the Netherlands
Listen, we’re going to keep it real with you. With all good things come a few factors to keep in mind as well.
❌ Not every home can have solar panels
Firstly, solar panels aren’t suitable for every kind of roof. You’ll have to consult some experts beforehand to assess whether you can safely install solar panels on your home.
Consultation is a very important process in buying and installing solar panels in the Netherlands. Image: Depositphotos
❌ The Netherlands can be cloudy
Secondly, solar panels are dependent on sunlight — and if we know anything about the Netherlands, it’s how tricky the weather can be.
Solar panels can be inefficient during gloomy days and storms, so you’ll need extra batteries or plans to store the energy if you want to rely entirely on solar to power your home.
The cost of solar panels in the Netherlands
That’s the million-euro question: how much money do you have to shell out to pay for solar panels in the Netherlands — and is it worth it?
The simple answer is that it will cost around €5000 (for six solar panels) and €12,000 (for 18 solar panels), including an inverter and installation, but excluding VAT. As of January 2023, you do not have to pay VAT on solar panels for your home.
Solar panels are a big investment. Image: Freepik
However, these costs depend on all kinds of factors, like the type of solar panels, the number of panels you need for your home, whether you can get a subsidy or tax break on solar panels, and the company you choose to buy from, to name a few.
The cost of a single solar panel ultimately depends on the company you choose to work with, but they cost between €400 and €500 per panel on average.
How many solar panels do you need to power your house in the Netherlands?
The number of solar panels needed for your home also depends on a few factors, including:
Your annual electricity consumption
The wattage of the solar panels you’re thinking of buying
The efficiency of your solar energy system
Sunlight, and the general climate of the area you live in
The average home installation falls between 10 to 12 solar panels, which would partially power the average Dutch house with solar energy.
Solar panels can cover your entire roof in the Netherlands, depending on your energy needs. Image: Freepik
To power your home solely using solar energy, you would need anywhere between 15 and 22 solar panels installed.
How much money will you save on your energy bills with solar panels in the Netherlands?
On average, you could save between €1,200 and €1,450 per year on energy bills if you have solar panels installed.
But (surprise, surprise) the amount of money you could save varies based on how much energy your solar panels produce and the average electricity prices throughout the year.
Regularly check your energy bills and see how they compare to last year. Image: Freepik
You’ll typically earn back the investment in solar panels within four to five years.
How much money will the Dutch government give you for solar panels?
The Dutch government has all kinds of schemes to reduce the overall costs of buying and installing solar panels. With changing laws and regulations, it can be difficult to keep track of the current rules.
VAT for the solar panel purchase and installation
Currently, there is no more VAT on solar panels, which means you can buy solar panels without having to pay any extra taxes on top of the initial purchase costs.
The netting scheme (salderingsregeling)
The netting scheme (salderingsregeling) is an arrangement where you can earn money for the excess energy your solar panels generate.
When solar panels generate electricity, it enters the electricity net and is sold to your energy provider rather than going directly into your house.
You’re compensated for all the energy you produce, which typically offsets your energy bill. If you produce more electricity than your household uses, you can actually make money from your solar panels.
Getting solar panels in the Netherlands to offset your energy bills is definitely worthwhile. Image: Freepik
Currently, the energy you sell is worth the same as the energy you buy. The Dutch government had plans to gradually phase out this scheme by 2031, but the senate voted against the proposal in February 2024, and salderingsregeling was set to continue for the foreseeable future.
However, as of May 2024, the new Dutch government coalition wants to scrap salderingsregeling again by January 1, 2024. The policy is still fairly far into the future, and no plan has been indicated yet, so the fate of salderingsregeling is still undecided.
So, why is the Dutch government planning on phasing out this policy? Because solar panels have become an extremely popular investment, the Dutch government is losing money by compensating everyone who sells their energy into the grid.
Feed-in compensation (terugleververgoeding)
Originally, the Netherlands was going to shift to the terugleververgoeding policy in 2031, after salderingsregeling ended.
Similar to the salderingsregeling, you would receive some compensation depending on how much energy your solar panels produced, but this compensation would likely be lower than the cost of electricity or the original compensation you’d get from salderen (net metering).
Now that the Dutch government is planning to continue salderingsregeling, they haven’t determined how much compensation you’ll get for having excess energy from your solar panels, according to the NOS in January 2024.
Some energy companies, including Eneco and Budget Energy, have actually started charging costs to solar panel owners for supplying energy back into the grid because salderen costs extra money for energy companies.
What type of solar panels can I get in the Netherlands?
There are three main types of solar panels you can get in the Netherlands: monocrystalline panels, polycrystalline panels, and thin film panels.
Monocrystalline panels
Monocrystalline panels are made using silicon and have an aluminium frame. These panels are more efficient in producing electricity from sunlight because of the structure of the cells.
These panels are also stronger and more resistant to temperature fluctuations — a must-have when you live in a country like the Netherlands. Overall, they’re a good choice if you plan to use solar panels for a long time since they’re extra durable.
Monocrystalline panel cells are generally large black squares. Image: Freepik
On the other hand, monocrystalline panels also tend to be more expensive due to their high efficiency.
On top of this, since their cells are made from a single piece of silicon, the panel sizes are limited. You may also need to cover more space to get the desired energy output for a larger home — meaning more expenses.
Polycrystalline panels
Polycrystalline panels are also made using silicon. The main difference from monocrystalline panels is that they’re made from several pieces of silicon put together instead of one large piece of silicon.
This means that these panels are generally cheaper than monocrystalline panels because they’re easier to manufacture and can be mass-produced.
Polycrystalline panels have cells that are typically rectangular and blue. Image: Freepik
They can also be used in smaller areas as they come in smaller sizes.
However, polycrystalline panels are also less durable and efficient than monocrystalline panels because they tend to be made from lower-quality silicon.
Thin film panels
Thin film panels are much thinner than their monocrystalline and polycrystalline counterparts, as they use different materials for the cells.
While these super-thin panels are ideal for portable solar devices, they’re also much less efficient and durable than their counterparts.
However, their durability has improved over time.
On thin film panels, you’ll just see a large gray sheet of solar cells. Image: Depositphotos
That doesn’t mean that they may not be the best choice for you, however! The choice of which panels to use really depends on your project and your budget.
It’s best to consult with an expert about which solar panels are most suitable for your personal situation.
How to maintain solar panels in the Netherlands
Believe it or not, maintaining solar panels has also become significantly easier over the past few years.
Cleaning your solar panels in the Netherlands
The most important maintenance you’ll have to do on your solar panels is cleaning them.
Solar panels have a special coating, which is usually enough for regular rainfall to clean them (and we’re never short of rain in the Netherlands). ☂️
However, apart from the usual rainfall, you should be cleaning your solar panels at least twice a year. Window cleaners can usually do this for you with osmosis water.
Inspecting your solar panels
It’s also important to get your solar panels inspected by a professional at least once a year. The costs for these inspections vary per company you install your solar panels with, so it’s good to take these into account when planning to go solar.
Better safe than sorry — get your solar panels checked and maintained frequently. Image: Depositphotos
When first purchasing and installing solar panels, you should also check if the costs come with a warranty for their maintenance or repair.
Typically, if there are any problems with your solar panels, your warranty should cover any repair or replacement costs within the warranty period.
Replacing important parts when needed
You’ll also have the replace the inverter every 10 years, which converts the solar-generated electricity from a direct current (DC) to an alternating current (AC).
Tip: Some solar panel companies have mobile apps that show you the energy production and overall efficiency for each panel — wat handig!
Okay, you’re in! How do you get solar panels installed in the Netherlands?
The first step to getting solar panels is choosing which solar company you want to buy from — they’ll handle the installation and any future inspections or maintenance.
You need to have solar panels installed professionally in the Netherlands. Image: Depositphotos
The next step is a consultation. Before you can even buy panels, you’ll need to talk to some experts.
Is your home suitable for solar panels? What are the best kinds of solar panels to use for my home? Is it possible to switch completely to solar energy? How much does this all cost? These are all questions your experts will help you answer.
Getting solar panels in the Netherlands doesn’t have to be super expensive or confusing. Discover the benefits of home sustainability — and before you know it, you could be the owner of solar panels. ☀️
Would you get solar panels installed at your home in the Netherlands? Tell us in the comments below!
Frequently asked questions: Solar panels in the Netherlands
How much does it cost to get solar panels in the Netherlands?
The cost to buy solar panels in the Netherlands varies per company, but you can expect to pay between €400 and €500 per solar panel.
Installation fees will also usually be included in the offer by a solar panel company.
How long does it take to get solar panels installed in the Netherlands?
Solar panel purchase and installation typically have a waiting time, considering how popular solar energy has gotten in the last few years. However, the wait time depends on many different factors, including the company and the time of year.
Once you’ve consulted and bought solar panels, it only takes one day for professionals to install solar panels onto a roof in the Netherlands.
Who installs solar panels in the Netherlands?
Solar panel companies will often offer a service to install the solar panels in your home for you.
This is generally advised because you’ll get a guarantee period in case there’s something wrong with the installation, and it’s safest to leave the instalments to a professional.
Can you get a subsidy for installing solar panels in the Netherlands?
The Dutch government has continued to subsidise solar panels in 2023 and 2024 for homeowners and business owners.
Is it worth investing in solar panels?
Definitely! You can save a lot of money on your energy bills and potentially send some electricity back into the energy grid in exchange for money. It’s also great for the environment.
Following the announcement of the new Dutch government, the coalition has laid out its plans for the coming years — here are a few financial changes to look out for.
The new government outlined their plans in a 26-page document, and we’ve sifted through their most notable plans for your finances.
1. Income tax will decrease
In 2024, taxpayers under retirement age pay 36.97% tax on their income up to €75,518 and 49.5% on anything above that.
The coalition has some new plans for wealth tax and income tax as an individual, namely:
They want to reduce wealth tax, which jumped from 32% in 2023 to 36% in 2024,
They want to add a third tax bracket for “middle incomes” to reduce the burden.
However, exactly how this will work is still unclear.
The new coalition has made €500 million available for increased rent allowance in 2025 — but there is a setback for people who receive childcare allowance.
In 2026, the maximum hourly rate of childcare (which determines how much you pay) will not be indexed for a year, meaning you won’t receive an extra allowance to compensate if childcare companies increase their hourly rates.
3. Own-risk deductibles decreased
Eigen risico, or own-risk deductibles, is the amount of money you have to pay yourself before your basic health insurance provides coverage.
Every foreign info website: "The Netherlands has universal healthcare!"
Me, having to pay like €200 a month on insurance on top of a €500 deductible just to have access to basic healthcare but still not getting the therapy and medication I need: pic.twitter.com/OYMchCAFaI
— Marcy 🌈 (@vickivampiress.bsky.social) (@VickiVampiress) September 12, 2019
Some appointments are always reimbursed by insurance and aren’t covered by the deductible.
As of 2027, the new coalition wants to reduce the standard deductible from €385 per year to €165. Now, that’s something we can get behind!
4. Extra tuition fees and costs for university students
Students will also have to deal with some potential financial burdens.
University students who are more than a year delayed on their bachelor’s or master’s degree must pay an extra €3,000 in tuition fees, which will take effect in the 2026/2027 academic year.
Long-term students (although we’re not sure who this includes yet) must also pay extra tuition fees.
5. Energy tax on gas decreases
The Rutte IV cabinet pursued policies that increased energy taxes on natural gas and electricity, with the intention of making greener alternatives like heat pumps more attractive — but this new cabinet is heading in the opposite direction.
They aim to reduce the natural gas tax by €0.028 per cubic meter in 2025 and then raise it again to €0.048 per cubic meter in 2030.
This could save many woners (residents) money in energy taxes, but the government is estimated to foot the bill of €357 million.
6. Minimum wage stays the same
There were plans to increase the minimum wage by July 1, 2024, but these plans were snuffed out by the Dutch Senate.
The coalition will likely not attempt to increase the minimum wage by this time.
7. Tax increase on flights
The new coalition will cut out most environmental measures from the Rutte IV cabinet, but they plan to introduce a differentiated air travel tax depending on the distance of the flight, as they have more emissions.
They haven’t indicated exactly how this tax will work and how much it be.
Of course, this isn’t (yet) a comprehensive list of financial changes coming from the new cabinet.
Many of the plans are still unclear, so we have yet to see whether they’ll come into effect.
Will these financial changes affect you? Tell us in the comments!
Enjoy this morning’s sunshine while it lasts. The afternoon brings heavy thunderstorms and rain, with Code Yellow called for eight provinces tonight.
Despite the dry start, lots of rain and thunderstorms are expected this afternoon in the centre and south of the country, NU.nl reports.
We can’t complain — the Dutch sunshine has been trying its best recently. And summery temperatures of around 23 degrees are still expected throughout the morning.
And the showers are back with a vengeance — the KNMI applies Code Yellow for heavy showers in the provinces of Limburg, North Brabant, Zeeland, Gelderland, Utrecht, South Holland, North Holland, and Flevoland.
Up to 40 millimetres of rainfall can be expected, alongside strong winds and possible hail. ☔
Questioning how many layers to wear when the Netherlands goes from tropical to torrential in 0.01 seconds? Us too.
