[mono442]

The reality is that expensive electricity in the EU is by design. The EU ETS imposes heavy taxes on fossil fuels (and they are set to increase even more), which in turn causes the price of electricity to rise. Fully renewable electricity generation is still a long way off, so this will continue for a long time. But it is entirely a self-imposed political problem and could easily be fixed by getting rid of the EU ETS or capping the price of emissions at a more reasonable level.

[gman83]

Yeah, crippling Europe in the long term for short term gain might not be the best idea - https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/apr/15/critical...

[wolvoleo]

It's for long term gain. Energy independence, combating climate change which will cost more to mitigate than the energy costs.

[throawayonthe]

why would you do that

[m463]

It seems many markets have punitive pricing on electricity, california being one egregious example.

In most places, if you buy more of something, you are a good customer, it is usually more economical to sell to you and you get a discount.

In california people who use more kilowatts, pay more.

[Rygian]

Punitive pricing is a great thing.

The less energy you spend to deliver value, the better for everyone.

[m463]

I can think of many many examples of using electricity as a greater value to society than not using it.

[Rygian]

You misread my comment.

If someone can deliver the same greater value to society using less electricity than you, they should be rewarded.