Energy

Daily swings in electricity prices are making battery storage more appealing, according to Energieopwek.nl. Renewable power output rose sharply in the first quarter, but fossil fuels still drive up prices during peak demand. Storing cheap power for later use could help offset these costs.

Mortgage rates in the Netherlands have increased due to the Iran conflict. First‑time buyers, as well as buyers in major cities and the new‑build market, are particularly likely to feel the impact, according to ING Research.

The European Commission is calling on member states to refill gas reserves earlier than usual due to risks linked to the conflict in the Middle East. Although the EU is better prepared than during the 2022 energy crisis, officials say early action could stabilise prices and reduce pressure later in the year. The warning highlights Europe’s continued reliance on gas routes through the Strait of Hormuz.

The Dutch cabinet says new energy-saving measures proposed by the IEA are less urgent for the Netherlands, given steps already taken since the 2022 gas crisis. Still, ministers are closely watching the economic impact of the war in the Middle East. A decision on possible support measures will follow once the scale and duration of price rises are clearer.

TenneT has sharply increased its investment in the Dutch and German electricity grid, even as many projects face delays. The operator says new measures should speed up expansion, while several major upgrades were completed ahead of schedule. Additional funding for TenneT Germany is also expected to be finalised in the coming months.

Oil prices have surged to their highest level in more than a year, driven by supply disruptions linked to the US–Israel conflict with Iran. Production in Iraq has dropped sharply, adding pressure to global markets. The rapid rise in both WTI and Brent crude highlights growing concerns about the stability of oil supplies.