Energy suppliers do not yet notice an increase in payment defaults | Consumer

Figures from Febeg, the Federation of Belgian Electricity and Gas Companies, show no significant increase in the demand for payment facilities or difficulties by customers. Febeg has figures until December 15, 2021.

That is not illogical, although energy prices are through the roof. After all, there are still some corrective factors at work. Many customers have a permanent contract that has been concluded for the period of significant increases. Until their contract expires, they are thus still protected against the high prices. In addition, one in five families is entitled to the very advantageous social rates. An arrangement that has been extended by the federal government.

Still, suppliers are concerned. The effect of the price increases will probably be noticeable in the coming months, as more and more people have to renew their contracts. And defaults pose a “structural” threat to suppliers’ financial health, Febeg warns. The sector demands a fair distribution of the risks between the various actors. Today, the suppliers bear all the risks. Febeg asks that the network operators and governments also take on part of the risk.

Payment facilities were granted by the suppliers during the corona crisis. A corona charter has been signed about this. Febeg figures now show that between March 15, 2020 – the start of the corona crisis – and December 15, 2021, 1.06 million payment facilities were granted by the energy suppliers, for an underlying value of 609 million euros. It concerned applications for deferral of payment or the start-up of a new payment plan.