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Mark Energy advisor

Below, we answer frequently asked questions from SMEs who want to review or improve their business energy contract. We keep it simple and jargon-free, so you know exactly what SPOT does and how we can help you.

Contract review

Everything about monitoring, extending, and optimizing current energy contracts.

What does contract control entail at SPOT Energy?

Contract review means that SPOT Energie thoroughly examines your current energy contract. We look at your rates, contract terms, and consumption to see if you are paying too much or if there are better options available. We often compare your current deal with current market prices and offers. This allows you to quickly find out whether your contract is still favorable or whether you can save money. SPOT Energie independently compares suppliers and contracts for you, so you can be sure that the advice is objective.

Why should I have my business energy contract reviewed?

Many entrepreneurs have signed a contract at some point and never look at it again. But energy rates and terms and conditions change regularly. What was a good deal last year may now be too expensive. By having your contract checked, you can find out whether you can save money or get better terms and conditions. It also prevents unpleasant surprises, such as tacit renewals at high rates. Contract review therefore gives you certainty and can save you hundreds of euros per year —money that you can put to better use within your company.

Does a contract review via SPOT Energy cost anything?

No, a contract check by SPOT Energie is free and completely non-binding. You pay nothing for our advice; we receive a small fee from the energy supplier if you sign a new contract through us. This does not influence our advice—we are not tied to any specific supplier. Our goal is for you to get the most suitable and affordable energy deal, even if that means staying with your current contract. You are not committed to anything and receive honest advice at no cost.

How does having my contract reviewed work?

The process is simple:

  1. Submitting data: You share your current energy contract or latest annual statement with SPOT Energie (for example, via email or our website). This will show your rates, consumption, and contract term.
  2. Analysis: We analyze this data and compare your rates and terms with current market prices and offers. We pay attention to things such as energy rates, fixed costs, notice periods, and your consumption profile.
  3. Tailored advice: We will provide you with a clear advisory report. This report will indicate whether your current contract is suitable or whether you would be better off switching. We will explain how much you can save and with which supplier or type of contract. You will often receive this advice within one working day to a few days, so that you quickly have clarity.

My contract still has some time left—is there any point in checking now?

Yes, contract review is useful in that case too. Firstly, you will gain insight into whether your current rate is still in line with the market. If your contract is fine, then you know you are in a good position and when you need to pay attention again. If there is a much cheaper offer, you can do two things: either switch now (keep in mind that there may be a cancellation fee if your current contract is fixed), or plan ahead. SPOT Energie can advise you on the best timing. Sometimes it is wise to sign a new contract now that will take effect after your current contract expires, so that you will not be faced with unexpectedly high variable rates in the future. In all cases, we ensure that you take action at the right time, without having to keep track of everything yourself.

What if my current energy contract is already favorable?

We will be honest with you about this. It may be that you already have a competitive rate or good terms and conditions. In that case, we recommend that you stay with your current contract. Our advice is 100% honest—we will never insist that you switch if there are no advantages to doing so. We may give you tips on how to further optimize your consumption within your current contract. If you wish, we can also note your details and notify you in good time when your contract expires. This way, you can be sure that you will always get the best deal, without having to keep an eye on things yourself.

Independent advice

Questions about our working methods without sales pitches or obligations.

What does SPOT Energy mean by "independent advice"?

Independent advice means that we objectively compare all available energy suppliers and contract options for you. SPOT Energie is not affiliated with any particular energy supplier, and we do not promote any specific brand. Our advice focuses purely on what is best for you as an entrepreneur. We make complex energy matters clear and provide transparent advice so that you can make an informed choice. The result: you quickly receive clear advice on where you can save money, focused entirely on your interests.

How does SPOT Energy earn money if the advice is free? Do you receive commission?

Our revenue model is similar to that of many comparison services: if you switch through us, the new energy supplier pays us a one-time fee (commission) for referring a customer. You pay nothing for our service. Because virtually all suppliers work with us, we can still advise you independently—after all, we list all the options. No supplier is given priority, regardless of the commission. Some energy advisors charge customers a subscription fee for completely independent advice; at SPOT Energie, you receive advice at no cost and we arrange the fee directly with the supplier. In both cases, you can be confident that the advice is focused on your benefit.

Is SPOT Energie's advice truly non-binding?

Yes, absolutely. Our advice does not oblige you to do anything. You can take your time to review our recommendations and think about them, without any obligation. If you decide not to accept the proposal, that's no problem – you are not committed to anything. We believe it is important that you feel comfortable with your choice. Many entrepreneurs come back to us later when the time is right, precisely because they appreciate our honest and non-binding approach. If you decide to switch via SPOT Energie, we will be happy to assist you further, but the choice is entirely yours.

Why should I use SPOT Energy instead of comparing energy prices online myself?

Of course, you can compare energy prices online yourself, but SPOT Energie offers a number of advantages that you don't have on your own:

  • Time savings & convenience: We take care of the research for you. You don't have to comb through all the fine print and rates yourself—we do that for you.
  • Expertise: We know the business energy market inside out. We know what to look out for in SME contracts, such as tariff structures, ancillary charges, and contract terms, which are not always clear to laypeople. This prevents you from comparing apples with oranges.
  • Customization: Whereas online tools often use standard averages, we look specifically at your consumption and situation. Do you have multiple locations, seasonal consumption, or special requirements (e.g., green energy)? We take these factors into account to provide you with tailored advice.
  • Personal advice: You can always ask questions and receive advice in understandable language. If anything is unclear, we are immediately available to assist you. A website cannot do that.
  • Aftercare: Even after signing a new contract, SPOT Energie remains available for questions or support. You don't get that service and reassurance when you arrange everything yourself.

In short, SPOT Energy gives you the certainty that you are making the best choice, without having to lift a finger. You have more time to focus on your business, while we make sure your energy affairs are taken care of in a smart way.

Which companies is SPOT Energy intended for?

Our services are available to all SMEs, large and small. Whether you run a construction company, installation company, retail store, or office, as soon as you purchase business energy, we can help you. We advise self-employed professionals with commercial premises, small business owners with, for example, a restaurant or garage, as well as larger companies with multiple locations. Every sector has its own energy profile: a contractor may have high consumption at construction sites, while an office mainly uses electricity during the day. SPOT Energie understands these differences. We have experience in a wide range of sectors and provide tailored advice that suits your industry and the size of your business. The goal is always the same: to give you control over your energy costs and contract, regardless of the sector.

Energy procurement

Explanation of how we purchase energy and determine the right moment.

What is energy procurement and how does SPOT Energy help with this?

Energy procurement means purchasing your electricity and gas smartly and strategically at the best terms and conditions. For an SME, this usually means choosing the right energy contract (price, duration, type of tariff) from the right supplier. SPOT Energie helps you with this by scanning the market and requesting offers that match your consumption and requirements. We work with virtually all energy suppliers in the Netherlands, so we can always find a tailor-made offer and you can choose the best deal. Instead of negotiating or comparing yourself, you get direct access to competitive business energy rates through us. Think of us as your purchasing advisor: we make sure you don't pay too much and that your contract fits your business operations.

Does SPOT Energie negotiate competitive rates or through collective purchasing?

Yes, we use our knowledge and volume to obtain favorable rates. SPOT Energie represents many entrepreneurs at the same time. This allows us to negotiate better rates with suppliers than you would often get as an individual customer. In some cases, we bundle the demand from several SMEs —a form of collective purchasing—to achieve additional volume benefits. There are energy collectives that hold annual auctions in which all energy suppliers can compete for the best price. SPOT Energie makes use of such market mechanisms wherever possible. You don't have to organize anything yourself: we take care of the negotiations and compare the results for you. This allows you to benefit from our scale and market knowledge, while retaining your own contract.

Should I opt for fixed or variable (or dynamic) energy rates?

That depends on your situation and preferences. With a fixed rate, the price per kWh (electricity) or m³ (gas) is fixed for the duration of the contract. You have certainty and no surprises if the market price rises – but you don't benefit if prices fall. With a variable rate, the price can change during your contract (usually twice a year) based on the market. You benefit from decreases, but also from any increases. Nowadays, there are also dynamic contracts where the price changes by the hour or day; this can be extra advantageous if you are flexible with your consumption, but it requires a little more attention to price fluctuations. Research has shown that smart choices (e.g., a dynamic contract in the right situation) can yield savings of up to 10–30%, but this varies greatly from company to company. SPOT Energie is happy to work with you to find the right solution for your company. If you need predictability in your costs, a fixed contract is often the best choice. If you see an opportunity to take advantage of low market prices and can handle any peaks, a variable or dynamic contract may be interesting. Our advice is tailored to your needs: we weigh up the risks and opportunities and clearly explain which option is best for your company.

What contract term is sensible for my company?

Business energy contracts can often be concluded for 1, 2, 3, or even 5 years. The best option depends on your plans and the market. A shorter contract (1 year) offers flexibility: you can renegotiate or switch every year if prices fall. A longer contract (3-5 years) provides more peace of mind and security: you lock in the price for longer, which is beneficial if rates rise, but you are also tied in for longer. There are advantages and disadvantages to each term. SPOT Energie advises you on this and looks at trends in the energy market, for example. If prices are expected to rise, it may be wise to lock in for longer. If we expect prices to fall or there is a lot of uncertainty, a shorter or variable term may be better. We also take your situation into account: if your company is planning to relocate or grow/shrink significantly, a shorter term is often more convenient. Together, we will choose a contract term that you are comfortable with.

Will you keep an eye on my contract after it has been signed?

Yes, we do. Securing a good deal is step one, but energy procurement is actually an ongoing process. When you sign a contract through SPOT Energie, we monitor the end date for you. You don't have to mark the end date of your contract in your calendar yourself—we'll do that for you. Well before the contract expires, we will contact you to discuss the options again. This prevents you from unknowingly ending up with an expensive renewal rate. We also continue to monitor the energy market. If we see anything relevant to you in the meantime (such as an opportunity to save money or a new development in the market), we will let you know. Our goal is for you to benefit from low energy costs in the long term, without having to constantly worry about it yourself.

Savings opportunities

Where and how you can save on your business energy costs.

How can I save on my business energy costs?

You can save on energy in two ways: by getting a cheaper contract and by reducing your consumption. SPOT Energy mainly helps with the former, but we also look at your consumption. Here are a few tips to help you save:

  • Sign up for a competitive energy contract: Compare suppliers and rates (or let SPOT Energie do it for you) so you don't pay too much per kWh or m³. Switching to a more favorable rate can immediately save you hundreds of euros.
  • Consume less energy: Identify where your company is wasting energy. Consider LED lighting instead of fluorescent lighting, turning off devices after working hours, good insulation, etc. Consuming fewer kilowatt hours and cubic meters will naturally reduce your bill immediately.
  • Use energy at smart times: Some businesses can spread their consumption. If you have a variable or dynamic rate, try to consume more during off-peak hours or when rates are low (e.g., at night or on weekends) and less during peak hours.
  • Sustainable investments: Consider installing solar panels on your roof, a more energy-efficient heating system, or other sustainable solutions in the long term. Not only will these reduce your energy bill, but they may also be eligible for subsidies (see the next question).

SPOT Energie can mainly help you with the first point—ensuring you have a cheap contract and insight into your consumption profile. For the other points, we are happy to give general advice and contribute ideas. Sometimes we work with partners (such as energy auditors or installers) if you want to invest further in energy savings.

Can SPOT Energy help me reduce my energy consumption?

Indirectly, yes. Our main task is to optimize your contract and rates, but we also look at your consumption patterns. For example, we can tell you when your consumption is high and whether a different rate (off-peak hours, weekend rate, or dynamic contract) would be more advantageous. We can also provide general advice on how to save money: simple things such as setting your thermostat smartly, switching off equipment, or perhaps sector-specific tips (optimizing the settings of a cold store in a supermarket, or switching off machines in a workshop at the right time). SPOT Energie is not an energy audit company, but we do have a lot of practical experience. If our contract analysis shows that your consumption is significantly higher than that of similar companies, we will bring this to your attention. We can also refer you to an energy scan or installer, for example, if you want to take major steps to reduce your consumption. So you are not alone – we will help you on your way to a lower bill, both in terms of price and approach.

How much can I save by switching energy suppliers?

That varies depending on the situation, but it can add up considerably. If you have been with the same supplier for a long time, there is a good chance that you are paying more than necessary. We have helped SME customers save hundreds to thousands of euros per year by signing a new contract. A concrete example: in 2022, energy prices rose dramatically; entrepreneurs who stayed with their existing supplier paid considerably more. Those who compared prices and switched in time were able to limit or even reduce their cost increases. Analyses show that smart contract choices can yield savings of 10-30%, depending on market developments. In quiet times, the savings may be slightly more modest, but still worthwhile. Our contract advice always shows you in concrete terms, in euros, what you can save in your particular case. This allows you to see immediately whether switching is worthwhile. And if so, we will help you to actually realize those savings.

Are there any subsidies or schemes for energy saving that I, as an SME, can take advantage of?

Yes, the government encourages companies to save energy or become more sustainable, and there are various schemes in place:

  • Energy Investment Allowance (EIA): This is a tax scheme that allows you to deduct 45.5% (percentage for 2023, subject to annual change) of the investment costs in energy-efficient business assets from your taxable income. Think of investments in, for example, energy-efficient lighting, insulation, energy-efficient boilers, or solar panels—if they are on the EIA list, you will receive a tax benefit.
  • Sustainable Energy Investment Subsidy (ISDE): Subsidy for commercial solar panels, heat pumps, solar boilers, and other items. For SMEs, this means, for example, a subsidy per kW of capacity of a solar panel installation or per kWh saved by a heat pump. This significantly reduces the purchase costs.
  • Temporary arrangements for high costs: In the event of extremely high energy prices, the government occasionally introduces support measures. For example, in 2022-2023, the TEK scheme (Energy Cost Allowance) was available to energy-intensive SMEs as temporary compensation for high energy costs. This scheme is currently (2025) closed, but it is advisable to remain alert to new support measures in exceptional situations.
  • Local subsidies: In addition, some municipalities or regions offer subsidies or loans for, for example, SME energy-saving projects or advisory processes. It is worth inquiring with your municipality.

SPOT Energie can alert you to relevant subsidies if we are aware of them, especially for measures that we recommend (such as solar panels). We are not subsidy advisors, but we do follow developments in this area. If you decide to invest in energy-saving measures, we will ensure that you are aware of the financial support available so that you can benefit as much as possible.

Does SPOT Energie also advise on sustainable solutions such as solar panels or green electricity?

Yes, our advice is based not only on price, but also on sustainability, if desired. More and more entrepreneurs want to make their energy consumption more sustainable —both to reduce costs in the long term and to contribute to a better environment (and often image also plays a role, as customers find this important). SPOT Energy can advise you on the possibilities:

  • Choosing green electricity/gas: When signing a new contract, you can often choose green electricity (generated from solar, wind, biomass) or even biogas. We show you what that costs and which suppliers really deliver green energy. Nowadays, green business contracts are often hardly any more expensive than gray ones.
  • Solar panels: Do you own a building with a suitable roof? Then solar panels could be an interesting option. We calculate roughly how much you can save and how quickly they will pay for themselves. We also tell you about subsidies or tax benefits (such as the EIA) that make this even more attractive.
  • Other measures: Consider a heat pump, electric company cars, LED lighting, or insulation. This falls slightly outside the scope of the contract advice, but we can provide basic tips and refer you to reliable parties or sources for more information.

Our approach is practical —we look at what is feasible and sensible for your specific situation. Sometimes it is advantageous to switch to green energy or invest in solar panels; sometimes it is better to wait. In any case, you will receive independent advice so that you can make an informed decision about sustainability in your business operations.

Switch

Answers about switching energy suppliers and what we can arrange for you.

Will I be without power or gas during the switch?

No, you don't have to worry about the lights going out or production coming to a standstill when you switch. In the Netherlands, the grid operator (manager of the regional energy network) always ensures that energy is supplied to your meter, regardless of which supplier you have. So when you switch energy suppliers, you will not be disconnected; the transition will be seamless, with no interruption to your energy supply. Your new supplier will take over the supply contract at the exact moment the old one expires. You will not notice any physical difference – the same electricity and gas will continue to be supplied. The only difference will be on paper (who sends you the bill) and in the price you pay.

Can I switch providers if my contract has not yet expired?

Yes, you can, but be aware of the conditions. If you have a fixed contract that is still running, you can always switch to another supplier, but in that case your current supplier will often charge a termination fee (penalty). This penalty is legally capped and depends on how many months you would still be tied in for. Sometimes the savings from a cheaper contract outweigh the penalty, but not always. SPOT Energie will calculate this for you if you are considering switching early. We look at the savings vs. the cost of the penalty. If your contract is about to expire (e.g., one month left), it is often wise to wait until the end date—you can usually sign a new contract 1 to 3 months in advance. If you have a variable contract (or your fixed contract term has expired), you can always switch free of charge with a notice period of approximately 30 days. In summary: switching before the end of your contract is possible, but weigh up the penalty against the potential savings. We help you make that decision and plan the switch at the optimal moment.

Will switching cost me money?

Switching itself costs nothing—no administration fees or connection fees. The new supplier does not charge any fees for becoming a customer, and the old supplier does not charge any fees for leaving (provided you comply with the agreements). The only possible cost aspect is the aforementioned termination fee if you switch before the end of a fixed contract. However, if you wait until your contract expires or if you already have a variable contract, switching is completely free of charge. In fact, it can actually save you money in the form of lower energy bills. Sometimes new suppliers even offer a welcome discount or promotional rate, which gives you an extra advantage. Our advisory report will always clearly state whether there is a termination fee for switching early, so you won't be faced with any surprises.

When is the best time to switch business energy suppliers?

This mainly depends on your current contract and market conditions:

  • End date in sight: The best time to arrange a new contract is usually 1 to 3 months before the end date of your current contract. This prevents you from ending up with an expensive standard rate after the end date and gives you enough time to choose. Suppliers usually send a renewal offer 1-2 months in advance; that's your cue to compare (you can also shop around earlier – the new deal can start after your end date).
  • Running variable contract: If you have a variable contract (or your fixed contract term has expired), you can switch at any time with 30 days' notice. There is little advantage in waiting, unless you are speculating on falling prices. In general, the sooner you find a better rate, the sooner you will save money.
  • In the event of significant price drops: Keep an eye on the market (or let SPOT Energie do it for you). If energy prices have fallen significantly compared to what you are currently paying, it may be worthwhile not to wait. We have seen periods when prices fell by 50%; if you are still locked into a high rate for another 8 months, switching early is sometimes the better option, despite the penalty.
  • In special situations: Relocation (see also New Connection), business expansion, or downsizing may be reasons to review your contract. Please contact us in the event of such changes; it may be beneficial to switch or adjust your contract at that time.

In short: make sure you don't stay on an expensive contract unnecessarily. SPOT Energie can keep track of when it's time to compare again. We will notify you in good time with no-obligation advice, so you can always switch at the right time.

Will SPOT Energy help me with the entire switching process?

Yes, we take virtually all the work off your hands. Once you decide to follow our advice and switch, we (in collaboration with the new supplier) will take care of the rest. We will send you the necessary documents or a link to confirm the application. The new supplier will then take care of the administrative switch, including canceling your old contract. We guide you through every step: from filling out any forms to reviewing the new contract confirmation. Do you have multiple locations or meter readings that need to be submitted? We can help with that too, so that everything runs smoothly. In the unlikely event that something goes wrong, you can count on us to fix it. The result is that you switch to a better deal without any hassle or stress.

New connection

Everything you need to know about a new energy connection.

How do I request a new energy connection for my business?

You can arrange a new connection (for electricity and/or gas) through the regional network operator —this is the party that manages the energy network in your area (such as Stedin, Liander, Enexis, etc.). You can do this centrally via the website mijnaansluiting.nl. There, you indicate that you need a new connection, for which address and with what desired capacity (amperage or connection value for electricity, m³/h capacity for gas). After you submit the request, you will receive a quote from the network operator with the costs and details. If you agree, they will schedule the work to realize the connection (laying cables, installing meters). It is wise to do this well in advance – a new connection can take several weeks to months to complete, depending on how busy they are and the complexity of the work.

Does SPOT Energie help arrange a new connection?

Yes, SPOT Energie can certainly assist you. Although the actual installation is carried out by the grid operator, we will help you by guiding you through the process. Specifically, we can: work with you to determine the capacity you need (so that you don't request a connection that is too small or unnecessarily large), explain the grid operator's application form, and check that everything is correct. Even if it concerns a temporary construction connection (e.g., for a construction site or event), we can advise you on how it works. In addition, we think ahead: after the physical connection, you will need an energy supplier to supply electricity/gas to that new connection point. We ensure that you sign a suitable energy contract in good time, so that as soon as the grid operator activates the connection, you will immediately receive energy. So you are not on your own—we ensure that both the technical connection and the associated contract are arranged without any worries.

How long does it take to set up a new connection?

This varies. For a standard small business connection (e.g., electricity up to 3x80A), you should allow for a lead time of several weeks to a few months. The network operator may need to schedule excavation work, install a meter, and complete the administrative processing. During busy periods or for more complex connections (e.g., for a business park, heavier industrial connection, or if network reinforcement is required), it may take longer—sometimes several months or, in extreme cases, more than six months. It is therefore advisable to submit your application as soon as possible once you know you need a new connection. That way, you won't be pressed for time. SPOT Energie can inquire with the grid operator about the expected turnaround time in your region and situation. We also keep in touch with them if necessary, so that you receive updates. In short, it is difficult to predict the exact duration, but applying early gives you the best chance of everything being completed on time.

How much does a new electricity or gas connection cost?

The cost of a new connection depends on the type and capacity of the connection. A simple electrical connection for a small business (e.g., 3x25A to 3x80A) usually costs somewhere between a few hundred and a few thousand euros. The grid operator applies fixed rates depending on capacity and distance to the grid. After submitting your request, you will receive a quote with a price estimate. Example: a standard mains connection close to an existing cable route is relatively inexpensive (a few hundred euros), while a heavier connection or one at a new location (where long-distance digging is required) will be more expensive. Gas connections also have their own rates. The quote specifies these costs. In addition, after completion, you pay annual standing charges and network costs for the connection, but you also have these costs with existing connections. SPOT Energie can help you understand the quote. We make sure that the proposed capacity is not unnecessarily high (because the higher the capacity, the higher the costs). This way, you don't pay more than necessary. Any connection costs are usually paid directly to the network operator – this is separate from your supply contract.

Do I need an energy contract immediately when I get a new connection?

Yes, once the physical connection is in place and the meter box/meters have been installed, you will also need to have an energy supplier to provide you with energy. The network operator will assign your new connection a unique EAN code, but does not supply energy itself; you will need to enter into a contract with a supplier before you can actually purchase electricity or gas. It is important to do this in good time: as soon as you know the completion date of the connection, you must ensure that an energy contract is in place by that date. If you do not do this, you will in theory not be able to purchase electricity or gas – you then run the risk of being disconnected because there is no active supply agreement (or you will be temporarily linked to an expensive emergency supply contract by the network operator). SPOT Energy helps you prevent this. We will search for a suitable contract for your new location in advance. This could be a contract that starts on the day your connection becomes operational. We will ensure that you choose a supplier that suits your new connection (for example, a green energy supplier if you want sustainability, or a competitive kWh price if you expect high consumption). This way, you will have energy at a good rate immediately after technical completion. So you don't have to wait until the connection is in place and then panic to find a contract—we take care of it proactively for you.