● practice● Active
Energiebank Nederland
Scale
local
subnational
national
systemic
Description
National network of local energy banks that helps households in energy poverty. Founded in 2016 by Barry Jansen, who conceived the idea during a leadership training while working at Alliander, in collaboration with local actors (Humanitas, the municipality of Arnhem, Voedselbank and social welfare). It operates with volunteers (energiecoaches) supported by professionals, with about 27 local banks in cities such as Amsterdam, Den Haag, Rotterdam, Groningen and Arnhem. The coaches make repeated home visits to advise on savings and behavior change, with evidence of reduced bills and improved comfort.