Keeping energy costs low
To reduce energy costs, a large number of households use electric heating in addition to gas heating; nearly seven in ten Dutch people (69%) make use of it. Other popular measures include purchasing energy-efficient appliances (48%) and structurally lowering the thermostat (41%). More modest behavioural changes, such as taking shorter showers (30%) and using electronics more consciously (29%), are also widely adopted to reduce the energy bill.
In addition to these behavioural adjustments, many Dutch people also opt for more significant investments in their homes. For example, 60% have had double glazing or HR++ glass installed, and 44% have switched to additional insulation of walls, floors or roofs. Effective but more modest adaptations, such as draught excluders (42%) and thermostat programming (40%), also prove popular.
Government support
Although reducing costs is a priority for many households, the environment (14%) as well as comfort or health (13%) also play a role for some in reducing gas consumption. Households indicate that they would invest more in sustainable solutions with the help of public authorities. In particular, energy price regulation and subsidies for sustainable investments are considered desirable by the majority (41%). Only 13% prefer financial compensation or direct assistance.