Energy company Essent in Den Bosch does not see the number of people who can no longer pay their bills rise explosively. Especially people who already had payment arrears, according to the company, get into deeper trouble. Essent’s customer service is not yet inundated with requests for help.
Essent doesn’t just cut off customers just like that. If you are unable to pay your bill, you can request a payment arrangement. Spokeswoman Maureen Veurman: “We look for a solution together with the customer. We always talk first. For example, we look at what amount the customer could pay or we look for debt help for advice together,” says Veurman.
There is currently a backlog, but according to Veurman that is mainly due to a recent malfunction. “At the moment we can help everyone, whether it will remain that way remains to be seen. It also depends on what help someone needs.”
If energy prices continue to rise and people receive their often sky-high final bill, waiting lists for debt counseling may arise. That means they will have to wait longer before they know where they stand.
“It’s going to be a huge problem”
In debt counseling, the income and expenses are managed by a counselor. People receive living money and the rest is paid out to the creditors. If you have registered for a payment arrangement or debt assistance, you may not be closed.
Ria Maassen of Grip Op Schuld in Deurne sees an increase in the number of people who run into problems due to high energy bills. “We expect a large influx of people with energy debts. Nor do I expect that we can help everyone. It will be a huge problem.” Grip Op Schuld consults with the municipality of Deurne about the possibility of making people requesting assistance eligible for special assistance.
Debt restructuring is the last resort. The living allowance is then determined by law. If the creditors agree, the remainder of the debts will be forgiven after three years.
“The increase in the number of closures can be explained”
If someone is nevertheless disconnected, it will be carried out by grid operator Enexis. That company sees a slight increase. Spokesperson Tim van Ham. “We’ll never get a reason for the shutdown, but higher energy prices may explain it.” Enexis says it does not have exact figures for the number of closures.
The government is currently drawing up a policy to prevent massive debts and cut-offs. For example, according to the NOS, the government would take over the energy debts of citizens and there may be a maximum price for energy. This should be paid with a fund, to which energy companies also contribute. The cabinet wants to announce these plans on Budget Day, next Tuesday. Energy minister Rob Jetten said on Wednesday in the talk show Op1 that ‘no one will be closed this winter’.