The European Union is concerned about the growing energy poverty in its member states. According to the European Commissioner for Employment and Social Rights, Nicholas Schmidt, millions of people are already paying so much for energy that they fall below the poverty line. He fears that this number will increase.

Oil and gas prices have risen sharply in recent months, which has led to a sharp rise in energy bills for individuals, as well as businesses. According to Schmidt, the European Union can help, but it is the member states that should mainly support the citizens in the short term.

The energy issue is on the EU agenda next week

High energy prices are on the agenda of the European leaders’ meeting next Thursday and Friday. Earlier, the European Union had already come up with a “tool box” with support measures that individual countries could take. Many states have now announced measures to accommodate individuals and businesses.

in the Netherlands The Cabinet decided on Friday To allocate about 3 billion euros for this. The bulk is used to reduce the energy tax on gas and electricity. In addition, there will be funds to insulate homes, so that people receive lower heating costs.

greening

In the European context, measures are being considered to prevent long-term price fluctuations, such as energy joint procurement. Moreover, the idea is to speed up the transition to more sustainable energy, so that European countries become less dependent on oil and gas. The European Investment Bank must provide capital for this. The European Union sees faster greening as the best way to avoid the volatility of fossil fuel prices.

After the meeting of European leaders this weekend, a meeting of responsible ministers from EU countries will be held on October 26 to make decisions.