Net Metering in the Netherlands: What Changes Mean for Solar Households
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If you own solar panels in the Netherlands, you've likely benefited from the salderingsregeling (net metering): the ability to offset grid imports with the electricity you export over the year. It's been simple and generous—one reason rooftop solar is so popular. But the rules are changing.
The Dutch government has confirmed that net metering will end from 1 January 2027. Here's what that means for your bills, why self-consumption matters more, and how to prepare—with links to official sources.
How net metering works (today)
Today you can offset the power you send to the grid against what you import, on an annual basis. This makes your bill easy to understand and improves the payback for solar.
| Energy flow | kWh | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Imported from grid | 3,500 | |
| Exported to grid | 2,800 | Offset against imports |
| Billed electricity | 700 | Charged at retail rate |
Learn more: Rijksoverheid – Salderingsregeling · RVO – Salderen met zonnepanelen
What changes from 1 January 2027
From 2027, you will no longer be able to net your exports against your consumption. Instead, you will receive a feed-in tariff for each kWh you export, and you will pay the retail price for what you import. Several suppliers also charge terugleverkosten (feed-in charges) to cover grid balancing and administration.
| Until end of 2026 | From 2027 | |
|---|---|---|
| How exports are treated | Annual netting against imports | Paid a supplier feed-in tariff (€/kWh) |
| Typical import price vs. export value | Same retail rate (netted) | Import ~ higher than export value |
| Extra charges | — | Possible terugleverkosten per kWh or per year |
See updates: ACM – Feed-in costs update · NL Times – Feed-in changes
What it means for your household
The end of net metering shifts value from exporting to self-consumption. Using more of your own solar directly—especially during midday—improves savings. Batteries and EVs can help store surplus for evening use.
- Run flexible appliances (laundry, dishwasher) in daylight.
- Use EV smart charging and heat-pump scheduling.
- Consider a home battery to shift solar from day to evening.
- Compare supplier feed-in tariffs and any terugleverkosten.
Policy context: Consumentenbond – Salderen stopt 2027 · Eneco – Nu en straks
How to prepare (simple checklist)
- Shift usage to solar hours: timers, smart plugs, appliance schedules.
- Upgrade to a smart tariff: dynamic pricing can align with your solar output.
- Assess storage: home battery ROI improves when exports earn less.
- Review your contract: check export rates and any feed-in charges.
FAQs – Net Metering in the Netherlands
1) When does net metering end?
From 1 January 2027, according to the Dutch government. Until end-2026, full annual netting applies.
2) Will I still be paid for exports?
Yes. You'll receive a supplier feed-in tariff per kWh exported. Amounts vary by supplier and contract.
3) What are terugleverkosten?
Supplier charges for grid feed-in. Methods vary—some charge per kWh, others a fixed annual amount or tiers. Check your contract.
4) Is a battery worth it after 2026?
It depends on your usage and export value. Lower export earnings and dynamic tariffs can improve battery ROI, especially if you have EV charging or a heat pump.
5) Where can I find official updates?
See Rijksoverheid, RVO and the regulator ACM.
Last updated: November 3, 2025