The energy supply licenses of Hollandse Energie Maatschappij, now HollandsStroom, have been revoked due to the company’s inability to reliably provide energy, according to the Dutch Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM). Customers will be transferred to another supplier and will continue to receive gas and electricity.
HEM has held supply licenses since 2020 but was placed under increased scrutiny last year. In 2023, the company charged excessive prices, which were later adjusted after ACM’s intervention, allowing customers to switch suppliers for free.
Many customers are still owed refunds. The company was also fined for aggressive sales practices, where representatives misrepresented their affiliations.
HEM disputes the ACM’s portrayal, claiming it has worked hard to comply with regulations and has compensated customers with millions of euros. In October, the ACM advised HEM customers to stop paying their bills, a statement later deemed inappropriate by the court.
HEM argues that this statement led to the withdrawal of vital partners and hindered their ability to fulfill commitments.
Source: NOS