Introduction: what are the ERE regulations?
In 2026, the Netherlands introduced a new system under the Fuel Transition Obligation to reduce emissions in transport: the ERE regulation.
In short, this system measures real CO₂ reductions and ensures that companies responsible for emissions are held financially accountable for them.
For charger owners, this changes how EV charging is valued. Charging activity on owned charging stations can now generate measurable environmental value that can be converted into hundreds of euros of financial compensation through EREs.
This has direct implications for:
- Home owners with EV chargers
- Small businesses with charging infrastructure
This page explains what the ERE regulations are, how the ERE system works, what changed in 2026, and how the system is structured.
From HBE to ERE: what changed?
Before 2026, the Netherlands used a system based on HBEs (Hernieuwbare Brandstofeenheden).
The new regulations where HBEs become EREs fundamentally changed the focus:
HBE system → based on share of renewable energy
ERE system → based on actual CO₂ emissions reduction
This means the system now rewards real environmental impact, rather than simply the use of renewable energy.
This shift aligns with the European Renewable Energy Directive (RED III), which requires reduction of greenhouse gas emissions across the full fuel lifecycle. The Dutch ERE system translates these European requirements into a national framework focused on measurable emissions savings.
When did EREs come into effect?
The new ERE system was formally approved by the Dutch Senate on March 31st, 2026.
The regulations were implemented earlier, on January 1st, 2026, meaning the system applies from the start of the year.
As a result, emission reductions generated from EV charging since the start of 2026 can be included retroactively within the system, depending on eligibility and registration.
The system is expected to remain as such for the distant future.
How does the ERE system work?
At its core, the ERE system functions as a regulated carbon accounting and trading mechanism.
It consists of four key steps:
1
Obligation
Fuel suppliers must meet annual emission reduction targets based on the carbon intensity of the fuels they supply.
2
Measurement
Emission reductions are calculated using standardised methodologies:
- based on fuel lifecycle emissions
- verified against regulatory benchmarks
3
Conversions
Verified emission reductions from large cooperations are converted into:
EREs (1 ERE = 1 kg CO₂ avoided)
4
Settlement
At the end of each compliance period:
- companies must hold enough EREs to meet their targets
- any shortfall must be covered by purchasing EREs on the market
The role of the Dutch Emissions Authority (NEa)
Because EREs are used for legal compliance, the system is tightly controlled.
The Nederlandse Emissieautoriteit (NEa):
- Defines how emissions are calculated
- Approves methodologies and reporting standards
- Oversees verification and audits
Only emission reductions that meet strict requirements, are properly documented, and successfully verified – are recognised within the system.
This ensures that:
- Emission reductions are real
- Double counting is prevented
- The system remains credible
Want to know more about how the ERE regulations work? Check out our detailed overview of the ERE system →
The role of EV charging in the ERE system
Within the ERE regulation framework, EV charging is one of several recognised sources of emission reductions.
However, it is unique because:
- It is distributed across many individual charging points
- It depends on accurate measurement and collection of charging sessions data
- It is directly linked to user behaviour
Because of this, EV charging cannot participate in the system directly on its own. Charging data must be:
- Measured
- Aggregated
- Validated
- converted into compliant units
- Traded
This is why specialised parties are involved:
- Data providers (such as Tap Electric) → collect and structure charging data
- Compliance parties (such as Inboekers B.V. – a Tap partner) → handle conversion, verification, and trading
Earn with your charger via ERE’s
With Tap Electric you earn money from EREs while we handle registration, verification, and trading for you in a fully transparent manner.
What the ERE regulation means for EV drivers and charger owners
For the first time, EV charging is not only treated as sustainable energy consumption – but also as a measurable contribution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
This changes how charging is valued and for charger owners this means:
- Charging activity on your own charging station can generate additional financial value. Curious how much you can earn with EREs? Try our ERE calculator →
- Home and business charging infrastructure become more economically attractive
- Cost per kWh for charging your car can become cheaper
At the same time, the regulation strengthens the role of EVs within the broader energy transition by creating a direct link between cleaner transport and financial incentives.
As the system develops further, EV charging is likely to play an even bigger role in how the Netherlands reduces transport emissions.
Check your eligibility
As part of the ERE registration process at Tap, you can check your charger eligibility – no commitment or continuation needed.