The kWh price a resident pays is not arbitrary. It consists of several layers - and choices can be made at each layer.
What type of connection does your VvE have?
Most parking garages have a connection of 3x80A or larger. This is a relatively expensive connection in terms of grid costs. Whether your VvE is classified as a small or large consumer depends on the specific connection size and affects both the energy contract and grid management costs. The Quick Scan maps this for your specific situation. See also Energy tax.
The three layers of the kWh price
1. Electricity purchase price (energy contract) - three contract types are relevant:
- Fixed rate - predictable, but you do not benefit from low market prices.
- Peak/off-peak - lower price outside peak hours, higher price during peak hours. A good compromise.
- Dynamic - follows the EPEX spot market per hour. The cheapest option with smart charging. Note: a variable contract (where prices are adjusted quarterly when a fixed contract expires) is the least desirable contract form and is something entirely different from a dynamic contract.
2. Grid management costs - transport costs, standing charge and capacity transport. From 2028, grid management costs will also become dynamic per time block, as part of congestion policy.
3. Energy tax - tax levied in bands based on total annual consumption. See Energy tax for current rates.
Two major opportunities for cost reduction
Renewable Fuel Credits (ERE) generate a return per kWh charged via a MID meter. When charging with your own solar power, you receive twice as many ERE credits. That amount is offset against the kWh price. See Renewable Fuel Credits.
VAT reclaim on infrastructure costs and electricity procurement is possible if the VvE is registered for VAT and the Charge Point Operator (CPO) structure is set up correctly. See VAT & the VvE.