It is now becoming a national sport to keep energy bills as low as possible. In Zaanstad there is the Fixbrigade that makes old rented houses more economical, and at the moment the demand for the service is huge. “People get the bills sent home and the draft, it’s the regular story,” says Peter Oostenbrugge of the Fixbrigade
As many as 75 applications have been received this month, while they have refurbished about a hundred houses in the past year. Peter only goes to Parteon rented houses on behalf of the municipality.
A few tens
Foil is placed behind the heating, draft strips are installed and any broken windows are reported to the landlord. “Those measures can quickly save a few tens on the bill,” says Peter.
And that is badly needed, says Erika Voorendt, who has a visit from the Fixbrigade. Her energy bill has risen by fifty euros a month this year: “And that while I haven’t even turned on the stove yet.”
The Fixbrigade is a free service that Parteon tenants can use. Erika thinks that it will be quite difficult for her and other Zaankanters in the coming winter with the rising prices.
energy coach
The municipality and the Parteon housing cooperatives know this too. They hope to expand the brigade. The goal is to be able to help 300 homes next year, but then more people will have to come and work for the brigade. Alderman René Tuijn says he is working hard on this. Until then, people can also get the materials themselves through energy coaches and place them themselves.