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Help with low income

White goods scheme

Residents who receive the energy allowance can all participate in the white goods exchange scheme. This allows them to exchange their old refrigerator, fridge-freezer or washing machine for a more energy-efficient new appliance. This saves energy (costs) and is better for the climate.

Can I apply for the white goods scheme?

No, you cannot apply for the white goods scheme. The white goods scheme is for households that have received 800 euros in energy allowance. These are low-income residents. They will automatically receive an invitation to participate in the white goods scheme.

How does the white goods scheme work?

  • If you have received the energy allowance, you will automatically receive a letter about the white goods scheme. That could take a few weeks.
  • The letter contains information and a personal code. With that code you can digitally request a gift card.
  • You will receive the Groupcard gift card by post. The card has a value of 550 euros. This allows you to purchase a new device from affiliated (online) stores, possibly for an additional fee. You can choose from:
    • a washing machine
    • a refrigerator or
    • a fridge-freezer combination
  • Your old device will be included when your new device is delivered.
Also good to know
  • Request the gift card quickly. There is already a waiting list. You will automatically be notified when gift cards are available again.
  • Your gift card is valid for 62 days. The validity of your gift card is also stated in the letter you receive from Groupcard.
  • You cannot pass the gift card on to someone else.
  • If you want, you can buy/exchange multiple devices. You will then have to pay the rest yourself. The municipality pays for 1 gift card of 550 euros.
  • You always hand in your old device. The new device will not be delivered without an old device. With the scheme we want to replace appliances that are not energy efficient with energy efficient appliances. You also hand in the same type of device. So if you buy a washing machine, you hand in an old washing machine.

White goods scheme waiting list

There is currently a waiting list for gift cards. Have you received a letter with a unique code? Please request the card with your code. You will then be automatically notified as soon as gift cards become available again.

Your situation When will I hear more?
I received the invitation letter and requested the gift card before February 1 You will receive a message from the Regional Energy Desk (REL) no later than the end of April 2024 when you receive the gift card.
I received the invitation letter and requested the gift card after February 1 At the end of April you can read on this page when you can expect the gift card or a letter about the white goods scheme from us.
I received the energy allowance before February 1, but have not yet received an invitation letter for the white goods scheme You will receive the invitation letter in the week of March 4 to 8, 2024. Request the gift card using the code in the letter so that you can be placed on the waiting list. At the end of April you can read on this page when you can expect the gift card.
I received the energy allowance after February 1, but have not yet received an invitation letter for the white goods scheme We ask you to be patient for a while. We will first collect all applications for the 2023 energy allowance from February 1 to March 31, 2024. At the end of April you can read on this page when you will receive the invitation letter with your personal code from us.

More information or questions?

Go to The gift card, how does it work? | Regional Energy Desk (REL) for:

  • (explanation about) exchanging the gift card
  • an overview of participating stores for purchasing an energy-efficient appliance
  • answers to the most frequently asked questions or
  • to check the balance and validity
You can also call or email the Regional Energy Desk

Send an email to kadokaart@regionaalenergieloket.nl or call 0800-2700100.
Customer service representatives will be happy to assist you.

I need financial help because I can't pay my utility bill.

Ask for help if you can't pay your energy bill. For example, by making a payment agreement with the energy company or by contacting Debt Assistance. More about debt assistance.