European Union energy ministers met on Thursday to discuss ways to reduce electricity bills and strengthen energy supplies ahead of winter, as rising fuel costs place further pressure on households and businesses.
The talks include proposed changes to electricity taxes and network charges, alongside preparations for the 2026–2027 heating season. According to the Council of the EU, the proposed reforms aim to reduce electricity system costs, improve grid tariffs and support investment in smart grids and meters.
One measure under discussion would tax electricity at a lower rate than natural gas, helping make electric heating and other technologies more affordable. However, the taxation proposals face resistance, with ministers from Sweden and Poland expressing opposition ahead of the meeting, Reuters reported.
The discussions come as Europe enters winter with gas storage facilities approximately 75% full, compared with 83% a year earlier. Wholesale European gas prices briefly reached €100 per megawatt-hour on Wednesday, their highest level since December 2022. Conflict-related disruption to refineries and shipping routes has added to supply pressures.
EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen warned that nearly 50 million Europeans already struggle to heat their homes adequately. He said Europe had improved its resilience by reducing gas consumption and diversifying suppliers since 2022, while cautioning governments against excessive fossil-fuel subsidies.
Alongside immediate winter preparations, ministers are examining longer-term energy security, interconnection and efficiency goals. The proposed bill reforms remain under discussion; the meeting agenda does not establish that new tax or network-fee rules have been adopted.
