Energy price brake disappoints consumers: criticism of government measures

Energy price brake disappoints consumers: criticism of government measures

In recent years, rising prices have been a burden for the population. The government introduced three relief packages, including state energy price caps. But the effectiveness of these measures is questionable. The consumer advice center strongly criticized the fact that energy price caps often have the opposite effect of their purpose. Many customers complain about high discounts from energy suppliers and a lack of information. Points of criticism include long waiting times on hotlines.

According to Ramona Pop, board member of the Federal Association of Consumer Organizations, improvements must be made in the practical implementation of energy price brakes. Over 50% of dissatisfied customers complain about excessive discounts or insufficient information. The consumer advice center initiated a call to identify problems with the relief packages. Feedback showed that both the electricity and gas price brakes often do not have the desired effect. It is recommended that the law be made clearer to ensure effective relief.

The consumer advice center is calling for the law to be improved so that the relief from the energy price caps reaches all consumers. Despite the fixed maximum prices for electricity and gas, providers repeatedly offer contracts at lower tariffs, so that the energy price brakes fail to have their intended effect. The current situation shows that adjustments are necessary so that price containment measures actually help citizens.