Since 21 March 2023, businesses that consume large amounts of gas and electricity have been able to apply for an energy cost allowance (TEK).
The TEK
To be eligible for the TEK as a business, the company must, amongst other things, be registered with the Chamber of Commerce and consume at least 5,000 m³ of gas or 50,000 kWh of electricity annually. Furthermore, the business must be energy-intensive, with energy costs accounting for 7% of its turnover. Previously, this proposed threshold stood at 12.5% (read more here: Energy Costs Allowance (TEK) expanded).
Finally, the company must meet the European definition of an SME. You can read what this definition entails here: Energy Cost Allowance (TEK).
The application
Via the RVO website (https://mijn.rvo.nl/tek) it is possible to apply for the TEK. The application period covers the period from 1 November 2022 to 31 December 2023 inclusive. Applications may be submitted until 2 October at 17:00. The application is backdated to 1 November 2022.
To submit the application, you must log in using EHerkenning Level 3 or DigiD.
The grant
We have previously explained how the grant is calculated (Energy Cost Allowance (TEK)). The company submitting an application will first receive an advance payment equal to 35%. Previously, the advance payment was 50%, but this percentage has been reduced to minimise the risk of entrepreneurs having to repay the amount, given the falling energy prices.
Once the grant period has ended, the grant will be finalised. Depending on the outcome, the company will either have to repay (part of) the advance or receive an additional amount. The application for finalisation of the grant must be submitted by 5.00 pm on 31 May 2024 at the latest. If the grant amount exceeds €125,000, a report from an accountant will be required for the final determination (likely an auditor’s report): https://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0047926/2023-03-21#Artikel11).