More homeowners are embracing sustainability: heat pumps and home batteries are popular

Amsterdam, April 17, 2024 - More than 20% of Dutch homeowners plan to install a heat pump or home battery within a year. This is based on research conducted by Nationale-Nederlanden Bank, carried out by Norstat among 610 homeowners. Solar panels remain the leader with over half of those surveyed, while green roofs (15%) and solar water heaters (14%) are also gaining popularity.

Majority of owned homes have solar panels

The research further indicates that installing solar panels is a popular sustainability measure. More than half have opted for this after purchasing their homes. And 13% plan to switch to solar panels in the coming year. The high percentage of solar panels may also explain the desire of many homeowners to purchase a home battery.

Sustainable trend continues

• Heat Pump: 22% of respondents plan to install a heat pump in the next year.
• Home Battery: 21% have plans for a home battery in the next 12 months.
• Green Roof: 15% are considering a green roof on their home.
• Solar Water Heater: 14% want to purchase a solar water heater.
• Induction Cooking: 14% are switching to induction cooking.

Financing and advice are important barriers

Despite increasing interest, there are still some barriers:

• Financing: 32% of respondents who have not yet taken sustainability measures cite insufficient financing options.
• Lack of Information: 23% cite a lack of knowledge about subsidy schemes as a hurdle.
• Advice: Only a small minority has consulted a professional advisor on sustainability or its financing.

Informing and providing support are essential

Sitske Mauritsz, Director of Mortgages at Nationale-Nederlanden Bank, emphasizes the role financial advisors can play: "There is a great need for information and advice. Financial advisors can guide homeowners through the possibilities and assist them in finding suitable financing solutions. Especially now that the new mortgage rules are more favorable for homes with a low energy label."

Nationale-Nederlanden Bank is committed to sustainability

Nationale-Nederlanden Bank actively promotes sustainability with:

• Sustainable mortgages with favorable interest rates for energy-efficient homes.
• Information campaigns on sustainability options and financing.