Essent Raises Fixed Energy Contract Rates Again
Energy provider Essent has increased rates for fixed contracts for the third time in twelve days. Consumers looking for new deals face higher costs for gas and electricity.
Quick facts
- Gas rates on Essent's one-year fixed contract rose to €1.900 per m³ on October 27.
- This marks the third price increase for Essent fixed contracts in a twelve-day period.
- Total annual costs for an average household are estimated to increase by €66 to €69 depending on the contract term.
Why it matters
The energy market is currently experiencing high volatility, driven by wholesale gas price increases. The trend of providers frequently updating fixed-term offers reflects a strategy to manage risk in a shifting economic environment. Consumers are caught in a cycle of needing to lock in rates while prices climb, making energy comparison platforms a central point of interest for Dutch households.
Why it is trending now
As of October 27, 2026, energy supplier Essent has implemented a new round of price increases for its fixed-term energy contracts. This adjustment, which took effect today, represents the third time the company has raised its rates within a twelve-day window, drawing significant attention from consumers comparing energy providers.
Key facts
- According to Energievergelijk.nl, the gas rate for a one-year fixed contract reached €1.900 per m³ on October 27, an increase of nearly 7 cents compared to the previous day.
- The three-year fixed contract also saw price hikes, with electricity costs rising by one full cent per kWh.
- Subsidiary company Energiedirect followed the trend, increasing rates across all three of its fixed contract offerings on the same day.
- For an average household consumption of 2,300 kWh and 900 m³, the annual cost increase is calculated at €66 for a one-year contract and €69 for a three-year contract.
- While Essent has slightly increased the welcome discount on its one-year contract, analysts note this only partially offsets the total price hike.
Why this is trending in Netherlands
The trend reflects growing consumer concern over rising energy costs as winter approaches. With many Dutch households currently reviewing their energy contracts, the rapid succession of price adjustments by major providers like Essent has triggered increased search interest from those looking for the most affordable deals.
Background and context
The broader energy market has seen significant upward pressure on prices. Data from the regulator ACM indicates that wholesale gas prices reached approximately €86 per MWh in October, the highest level recorded since December 2022. While customers with existing fixed contracts are protected until their term expires, those seeking new contracts or switching providers are increasingly exposed to these market fluctuations. Since the start of October, at least 17 different suppliers in the Netherlands have adjusted their fixed contract rates upward.
What happens next
Consumers whose energy contracts are set to expire in the coming months will need to decide between accepting new offers or transitioning to a variable contract. As of today, experts advise that variable contracts are not automatically the cheaper option, as they fluctuate based on wholesale market conditions. Customers are encouraged to monitor their specific renewal notices, as these documents contain the exact terms and variable rates that will apply if no action is taken.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Essent raising prices?
The increases are part of a broader trend in the Dutch energy sector, where wholesale gas prices have risen to levels not seen since late 2022. Suppliers are adjusting their fixed contract offers to reflect these higher market costs.
How much more will I pay for energy?
For a household with an average consumption of 2,300 kWh and 900 m³, the recent Essent hikes result in an annual cost increase of approximately €66 for one-year contracts and €69 for three-year contracts.
Does this affect existing fixed contracts?
No. Price changes mentioned by Essent only apply to customers who are currently signing a new contract. If you already have a fixed-price agreement, your rates remain unchanged until your contract reaches its expiration date.
What happens if I do nothing when my contract ends?
According to the ACM, if you take no action, your supply will continue, but you will automatically be moved to a variable contract. The specific rates for this transition will be provided by your energy supplier in your renewal notification.
Are other energy suppliers also increasing prices?
Yes. According to comparison site data, at least 17 different energy suppliers in the Netherlands have raised their fixed contract rates since the beginning of October to align with current market conditions.
In this story
Sources
- Energievergelijk.nl: Essent verhoogt tarieven vast contract: dit betaal je nu extra
- De Dagelijkse Standaard: Contract loopt af: bij Eneco is variabel gas nu bijna 11 cent per m³ duurder dan een jaar vast
- Welingelichte Kringen: Engie en Essent: jaarcontract ruim €180 duurder dan begin oktober, zo pak je je einddatum aan
Trend snapshot
- Topic
- Business
- Trending in
- Netherlands
- Search interest
- 5000+ recent searches
- Status
- Verified: 3 independent outlets
- Last updated
- Oct 27, 2026 at 4:45 PM
Last checked Oct 27, 2026 at 4:45 PM. Trends move fast, so details may change. How we work · How we verify
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