Updated energy saving regulations for The Netherlands

The recent update concerning the energy savings regulations in The Netherlands results in one or more obligations for every company with operations within The Netherlands. These obligations are stipulated in one of the following regulations: 

• the Activities Decree obligation to report energy-saving measures;
• the European Energy Efficiency Directive (EED) and;
• the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive.

Activities Decree obligation to report on energy saving measures

A company is obligated to take all energy saving measures with a payback time of 5 years or less, when using more than 50,000 kWh of electricity and/or 25,000 m3 of natural gas (or equivalents in other fuels) per year. Recognized energy saving measures have been laid down for 19 different sectors, resulting in 50 up to 70 measures, depending per sector. By July 1st, 2019 at the latest, all companies to which the Activities Decree applies (so-called type A and B companies) are obliged to report on the measures the company has taken to save energy. The report must be submitted to government via the Netherlands Enterprise Agency’s (RvO) ePortal. The report must be updated every 4 years. 

Energy Efficiency Directive

All non-small and medium sized enterprises (> 250 FTE or gross annual turnover of more than € 50 million and a balance sheet greater than €43 million) within the European Union are obligated to perform an energy assessment based on the European Energy Efficiency Directive (EED). This assessment must be updated every 4 years. By December 5th, 2019 at the latest, the second energy assessments have to be completed.

Energy Performance of Buildings Directive

For all companies with an office that covers more than 100 square meters, the Dutch Building Act (Bouwbesluit) obligates that the building has an energy performance certificate label C at minimum. By January 1st, 2023 offices with an energy performance certificate less than label C, may not be used as an office any longer. 

Be aware that more than one regulation can apply!

For example, an office building larger than 100 m2, with more than 250 FTE and an annual electricity use of more than 50,000 kWh should comply to all three regulations. Antea Group has the experience to find solutions that fit your company, deliver real business value and ensures compliance to the regulations.