Energy suppliers

• How is gas consumption calculated?

  To make sure that all consumers pay a fair price regardless of the caloric power of the gas received, gas consumption is calculated in kWh and not cubic metres.

• Where can I find my EAN code?

  You will find your EAN code on your energy bill, or you can call Sibelga customer services.

• Gas and electricity: what are the obligations of the tenant?

  When moving in, take out a plan with the energy supplier of your choice. During the tenancy, take care of the gas and electricity installations. When moving out, close the account if the new occupant refuses the transfer procedure.

• What is the difference between rich and lean gas? Does this have an impact on my bill?

  The difference between rich and lean gas is their calorific value, i.e. a different quantity of energy. However, this difference does not affect your bill.

• When and how can I change energy supplier?

  Since the liberalisation of the Brussels energy market, you have been able to choose your gas and electricity supplier. You can change supplier at any time but you have to take into account a period of notice to terminate your contract.

• How is electricity consumption calculated

  Your electricity consumption is determined every year on the basis of the difference between the reading displayed by the meter and that of the previous year. This counts the number of kilowatt hours delivered to you.

• Which energy suppliers serve household customers in Brussels?

  Although many suppliers are authorised to sell energy in Brussels, we note that there are only seven energy suppliers who focus on household customers.

• How do I choose my energy supplier?

  There are more than 15 suppliers on the Brussels market for both gas and electricity. Your choice of supplier depends on a number of factors, such as the rates applied, the contractual conditions, the related services or the supplier’s sustainability policy.

• How do I read my energy bill?

  Your annual gas and electricity statement consists of three main parts. Each one corresponds to the missions and costs incurred by a party in the energy supply chain.

• What is a smart meter?

  The smart meter or intelligent meter is an electronic meter that is capable of recording and transmitting power consumption data. Smart meters will be rolled out in Brussels gradually.

• How is the energy market organised?

  In the liberalised energy market, you are mainly in contact with two players: the supplier and the distribution system operator. However, alongside these two main parties, other companies or bodies also contribute towards supplying energy and ensuring that the market runs smoothly.

• Who should I submit a complaint to?

  If you have a complaint, first of all contact your electricity or gas supplier. If you are dissatisfied with the response, you can contact a mediation body and as a last resort you can start legal proceedings.

• What are my rights with respect to my energy supplier?

  You have very extensive consumer rights. You can leave your energy supplier at any time for a more advantageous offer or cancel an energy contract signed with a direct seller.

• Why are my gas and electricity bills going up?

  If you have a variable contract with your energy supplier, you are directly affected by the global rise in gas and electricity prices.

• Are smart meters coming to Brussels?

  In Brussels the roll-out of the smart meter is being organised by Sibelga, the power and gas distribution network operator.

• What does Brugel do?

  Brugel, the Brussels energy regulator, regulates and monitors the working of the market. Brugel is the contact point for the people of Brussels for everything relating to energy. The range of services it offers includes protection, mediation and information.

• Do I have to sign a new contract with the energy supplier if I move house?

  If you move house, you should check what is most advantageous for you. You can transfer your current contract to your new address, renegotiate or change energy supplier.

• Who sets the energy rates?

  The rates charged for gas and electricity are made up of three elements; each of these is determined by a specific party.

• Does the dual hourly rate have to be applied when the meter has two counters?

  Even if your meter has two counters, this does not necessarily mean that the dual hourly rate is automatically applied. To benefit from this, you have to conclude a specific contract with your supplier.

• Do I have to have the meter read if I move house?

  No, if you move house you do not have to have the meter read officially by Sibelga.

• Is collective energy purchasing beneficial?

  The rates you get through collective energy purchasing are not systematically financially more rewarding than those you could get yourself by contacting a supplier directly. However, they are still profitable in certain cases.

• Can I change energy supplier without incurring costs or being cut off?

  Since the Brussels energy market was liberalised, you are free to choose your gas and electricity supplier. You therefore have the right to terminate your supply contract at any time. You do, of course, have to give a period of notice.