nuSep 29, 2026, 04:32

Record number of homes made sustainable with subsidies, insulation especially popular

Over 850,000 homes in the Netherlands were upgraded using government subsidies between 2021 and 2025, with insulation being the most popular choice. While record numbers were reached in 2025, data shows that apartment buildings managed by associations face significantly more delays in implementing these sustainability improvements.

Between 2021 and 2025, more than 850,000 homes in the Netherlands underwent sustainability improvements through government subsidies and loans. The vast majority of these projects, over 91 percent, involved privately owned properties, with insulation being the most sought-after upgrade. Glass insulation accounted for nearly 40 percent of all measures taken. While there was a slight decline in 2024, activity surged in 2025 to reach a new record, with experts noting that rising energy costs are a significant driver for homeowners looking to reduce their consumption.

Progress remains more challenging for apartments managed by homeowners' associations, known as VvE's, where only 5 percent of units were improved compared to 11 percent of independent homes. Experts highlight that the collective decision-making process and financial constraints inherent to these associations often slow down renovation efforts. Despite these hurdles, the gap is beginning to narrow as growth in sustainability projects within VvE complexes continues to rise while activity in other residential sectors begins to stabilize.

Economy Business Netherlands

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Based on reporting by nu. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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