Fewer Flemish households struggle with energy bills, but rising prices spell uncertainty
Fewer Flemish households had difficulty paying their energy bills last year compared to 2024, according to new figures from the regional energy regulator VREG. That trend could come under pressure in 2026, however, as energy prices are rising due to the conflict involving Iran.
Following a record number of contract terminations in 2024, the number of terminations fell by 1.35 per cent in 2025. The share of households receiving a notice of default from their energy supplier increased slightly to 8.94 per cent, although that figure has fluctuated around a similar level for several years.
The number of households with active payment plans also declined, VREG reports. While suppliers granted more payment plans during the year, the overall number of active arrangements fell because far fewer plans had been set up in 2024. The average outstanding debt dropped by 9.8 per cent, while the average monthly repayment fell by 5.7 per cent.
Energy prices climb
Whether that positive trend will continue in 2026 remains uncertain. According to separate figures published by the regulator, the expected annual energy bill for an average Flemish household increased again in June.
Anyone signing a new electricity contract in June 2026 is expected to pay 1,295 euros per year, 18 euros more than in May. That remains below the peak recorded in April, when the conflict in the Middle East caused significant disruption on energy markets. For now, the annual bill is broadly in line with the level recorded a year earlier.
The increase is more pronounced for natural gas. Consumers signing a new gas contract in June are expected to pay 1,582 euros annually, 31 euros more than in May and 156 euros more than a year ago.
Natural gas prices remain elevated due to the prolonged disruption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and low gas reserves in Europe.
A provisional agreement between the United States and Iran has raised hopes that the rise in energy prices could prove temporary. If the deal holds, it is expected to pave the way for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, easing pressure on energy markets and allowing Europe to rebuild its gas reserves.
#FlandersNewsService | © BELGA PHOTO DIRK WAEM
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