The budget information institute Nibud has called on the government to plan targeted measures to support households immediately. By acting now, the National Institute for Budget Information believes the state can prevent those with the lowest incomes from falling into financial distress.
“Unlike the previous energy crisis, we can see these problems approaching from a distance,” Nibud stated. This foresight provides an opportunity to anticipate issues and offer support exactly where it is most needed. The agency noted that while rising oil and gas prices are currently most visible at petrol pumps, the long-term outlook is more concerning. If conflict persists, the supply of raw materials will remain a significant problem, eventually impacting both energy bills and grocery prices.
In Parliament, numerous parties have already pushed for measures to dampen the rising costs of energy and fuel. These discussions coincide with a scheduled debate regarding the economic consequences of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Ultimately, while the Netherlands maintains a world-class infrastructure, there remains clear room for growth. If the government successfully addresses current shortcomings regarding ticket affordability, real-time communication, and peak-time crowding, the national rating could easily climb even higher.
The budget watchdog Nibud has warned the government to prepare targeted financial support for vulnerable households before rising global prices cause widespread hardship. While the impact is currently felt most at the petrol pump, experts suggest that energy and food costs will soon follow.
The Jetten Cabinet’s Response
The current Jetten I Cabinet, a minority coalition led by Prime Minister Rob Jetten (D66) alongside the VVD and CDA, is currently evaluating several emergency levers. Following the parliamentary debate on 25 March 2026, the government is considering the following proposals:
- Energy Price Cap: A potential reintroduction of the 2023-style ceiling to protect against sudden gas and electricity spikes.
- Tax Adjustments: Plans to further reduce or extend cuts to fuel excise duties and energy taxes to lower costs at the pump.
- Social Safety Nets: Increasing the housing allowance and the statutory minimum wage to maintain purchasing power for the most vulnerable.
- Emergency Fund: The reintroduction of the Energy Emergency Fund to provide direct relief to households unable to pay their bills before the winter season.
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