If you’re planning a heat pump, the heat pump subsidy in the Netherlands can knock a serious chunk off the cost. In 2026 the government topped up the budget of the ISDE scheme, and you can get roughly €2,000 to €4,000 back depending on the system. Here’s how much you can claim, who qualifies and how to apply — without missing the deadline.
What is the ISDE and who is it for?
The ISDE (Investeringssubsidie Duurzame Energie en Energiebesparing) is the Dutch government’s main subsidy for homeowners making their home more sustainable. It contributes to the purchase of heat pumps, solar water heaters, insulation measures and connections to a heat network — but note it does not cover solar panels, which instead benefit from 0% VAT. The scheme is meant for homeowners; tenants are not eligible, although a landlord can apply. It runs until the end of 2030.
How much heat pump subsidy do you get in 2026?
The amount depends on the type, capacity and energy label of the heat pump. Rather than a single flat figure, the ISDE is built up from a few components:
| Component (2026) | Amount |
| Base amount (startbedrag) | €1,025 |
| Per kW of heat-pump capacity | from €225 / kW |
| Energy-label bonus (A+++) | €200 |
| Minimum payout | €500 |
In practice that works out roughly as follows:
- Hybrid heat pump: typically €1,500–€3,000. A 4 kW system with an A+++ label comes to around €2,125. A hybrid combines a heat pump with your existing boiler and is a relatively accessible first step.
- Fully electric heat pump: higher, because these are more powerful — often up to €4,000 or more. This replaces your gas boiler entirely and delivers the biggest cut in your gas bill, but works best in a well-insulated home.
Watch out for one 2026 change: split air-to-water heat pumps with a refrigerant charge under 3 kg and a GWP above 750 are no longer eligible. Check that your chosen model still qualifies. Because the exact amounts are set per device, always confirm the current figure on the RVO device list (meldcodelijst) before you buy.
Conditions to keep in mind
- Recognised device: the heat pump must appear on the official list of eligible devices maintained by the RVO.
- Professional installation: the work must be done by a recognised installation company. Do-it-yourself installation is not eligible.
- Apply within 3 months: you must submit your application within three months of the installation date — not the invoice or payment date. Miss it and the RVO rejects the application automatically, so don’t wait.
- Homeowner: you must own the home in which the heat pump is installed.
Applying step by step
- Choose a recognised heat pump from the RVO list and request quotes from certified installers.
- Have the device installed by the professional company.
- Collect the invoice, proof of payment and the meld code from your installer.
- Submit your application via Mijn RVO, logging in with DigiD — within three months of installation.
- Receive the subsidy in your account, usually within a few weeks of approval.
Combine measures for maximum benefit
You get the most out of the ISDE by combining a heat pump with insulation. A well-insulated home needs a smaller, cheaper heat pump and gives you lower bills. On top of that, more and more municipalities offer extra local subsidies alongside the ISDE. Check with your municipality which additional schemes are available, and see our insulation subsidy guide for the amounts you can claim there.
Not sure which heat pump suits your home? Essent offers heat pumps including installation and advice, so you can go from quote to installation with a single provider.
Making your home greener? It’s also worth switching to a sustainable energy supplier. Vandebron connects you directly to a Dutch wind turbine or solar farm — new customers currently receive up to €420 welcome discount.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the heat pump subsidy in the Netherlands in 2026?
Between roughly €1,500 and €3,000 for a hybrid heat pump, and up to €4,000 or more for a fully electric one. The amount is a €1,025 base plus €225 per kW of capacity, with a €200 bonus for an A+++ label and a €500 minimum.
When do I have to apply?
Within three months of the installation date. The scheme itself runs until the end of 2030, but the annual budget is limited, so applying early in the year is wise.
Can I combine the ISDE with other subsidies?
Yes. You can combine it with municipal subsidies and an energy-saving loan, and submit multiple measures in a single application.
Is a hybrid or a fully electric heat pump better?
A hybrid is a cheaper, more accessible first step that works alongside your boiler. A fully electric heat pump replaces gas entirely and saves the most long term, but needs a well-insulated home.
Read also: Green Electricity Comparison 2026
Related guide: all Dutch energy subsidies at a glance.