New on 1 January: capacity tariff for electricity, lower tax break for charging stations

From 1 January, the capacity tariff will make its appearance on the electricity bills of Flemish households. 7 percent of the bill will depend on the peak consumption of electricity in Flanders. The bills of most families will not change that much, assures the Flemish energy regulator Vreg.

The calculation will be based on measured monthly peaks. This is only possible for those with a digital meter. Those who still own a traditional meter pay a fixed amount. The net rate will be the same at all times: the difference between daytime and nighttime hours thus disappears. For those with a social tariff, sixteen percent of Flemish households, nothing changes at all and the capacity tariff does not apply.

The aim is to encourage families and companies to spread the consumption of especially heavy appliances, like a heat pump or an electric car. The energy transition, from fossil fuels to renewables, will increase the load on the power grid. By using the grid efficiently and spreading consumption, billions in network investments can be avoided. That way, grid tariffs will remain affordable for everyone in the future, the regulator argues.

The tax benefit for installing charging stations will also decrease, both for individuals and companies. It was introduced by the federal government in September 2021 to enable accelerated growth of electric car charging infrastructure in Belgium.

The tax benefit for private individuals, both owners and tenants, will drop from 45 to 30 percent on 1 January 2023, and to 15 percent on 1 January 2024. The benefit is being systematically phased out to encourage people to invest quickly, said Finance minister Vincent Van Peteghem. However, the amount for which a tax rebate can be granted is limited to 1,500 euros per charging station and per taxpayer.

Companies are also encouraged to install charging stations via an increased investment deduction. For them, the benefit will be reduced from 200 to 150 percent on 1 January 2023. Their charging infrastructure must also be accessible to other users during part of the day.

^{© BELGA PHOTO KURT DESPLENTER}