Poland has joined a growing group of countries seeking European Union action to curb surging gas and energy prices, as governments take steps to protect consumers from higher bills, according to Reuters.
Benchmark European gas prices have rocketed as tight supply has collided with high demand in economies recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, dragging up wholesale electricity costs.
EU environment ministers will debate their response to soaring prices on October 6 and the issue will be discussed at an EU summit on October 21-22.
„Member States need the flexibility to introduce quick, temporary measures to protect consumers and ensure fair treatment of our businesses,” Poland said in a paper shared with other EU governments, ahead of next week’s meeting.
The European Commission is drafting a „toolbox” of measures countries can use to respond to energy price spikes without breaching bloc rules.
EU member states largely set their own energy policies, and countries including Spain, Italy and Greece have already announced measures to cut consumer bills.
Poland also said the EU must not allow gas suppliers to abuse their dominant position to manipulate prices. It did not name any companies.
As energy prices soar, member states are increasing their scrutiny of new EU climate change policies, including a proposed CO2 price for fuel used in buildings and transport.
The measures, which include a multi-billion-euro fund to shield vulnerable consumers from higher fuel costs, all need approval from European Parliament and EU countries before they would be introduced in the next few years.
The European Commission has said a faster shift to clean energy would protect Europe against future price surges, by reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels.