Due to the historically high prices for electricity and natural gas, the government has taken a number of measures. For example, the social rates for gas and electricity were not only extended, but also extended until the end of March 2022. In addition, a premium of 80 euros was provided to compensate for the price increase within the social rate.
People who are entitled to the premium do not need to submit an application. The suppliers must contact them before the end of January, and then have twelve working days to pay the sum of 80 euros.
Even today, European gas prices continue to rise. For example, the price for a megawatt hour of gas (MWh) on the Dutch futures market – which is a guideline for the gas price in Europe – rose more than 6 percent on Friday morning, to 103 euros. This week alone, gas prices in Europe rose by more than 40 percent. The Russian supply of gas to Europe remains limited, raising concerns about shortages.