The Dutch advocate for farmers and growers, LTO Noord, warns of a 'massive increase' as of 2023. Transport costs for electricity will substantially increase. For companies with bulk consumption, this amounts to 52% on average. For a small farmer, this means thousands of euros a year. For larger growers, ten thousands of euros. The advocate is deeply concerned.
"Farmers and growers are already confronted with large cost increases. Power and gas have become much more expensive. An additional rise in transport costs is an extra blow. The ACM still has to approve the rate increase. We call upon the government to prevent this increase," says Nico Verduin, director at LTO Noord.
Pricier potatoes
Cornelis van Eck has a biological arable farm in Herkingen. Suddenly he received a letter that announced increasing rates for energy transport. This meant that he will have to pay an additional 5000 euros next year. "I find this truly ridiculous. I have no idea why it's becoming so much pricier. I understand the increase in energy, but for transport? It makes one feel powerless since the suppliers have a monopoly position. I really hope that the ACM can do something about this. Otherwise, our costs rise once more," says Cornelis van Eck.
More than agriculture
Not only agriculture and horticulture are getting hit by this cost increase, but also other businesses like bakeries and laundrettes feel its effects. Even the usual consumer has to do with the increase, as the average yearly costs will grow from 397 euros to 513 euros in 2023. An increase of over 100 euros.
Source: LTO Noord