Financial expert on burdens and uncertainties: energy prices and inflation in the Höxter district

Financial expert on burdens and uncertainties: energy prices and inflation in the Höxter district

According to a report from www.nw.de, the high inflation as a result of the Russian war of aggression in 2022 has led to uncertainty among consumers in the Höxter district. The NRW consumer advice center in the Höxter district was confronted with numerous inquiries and recorded a total of 524 assistance services last year. Rising energy prices and the resulting problems such as gas shortages, delivery stops and massive price increases by energy suppliers placed additional strain on consumers.

On average, in 2022, according to the consumer advice center, households had to pay three times more for gas and twice as much for electricity. The consumer advice center supported consumers, among other things, with questions about the legality of price increases, checking advance calculations and providing information about possible social benefits. There was also high demand for information about saving energy and investing in energy-efficient renovations and renewable energies.

In addition to the energy supply challenges, consumers also had to contend with other problems. Among other things, problems arose with foisted contracts, fake shops on the Internet and problems with travel providers and telecommunications companies. Fake shops on the Internet deceive with attractive offers for firewood, generators, solar systems, gaming accessories and household appliances. Consumers who had paid in advance generally never saw their money again and could only file a report.

In order to help consumers distinguish reputable online shops from fake shops, the consumer advice center developed the online tool “Fake Shop Finder” in 2022. Those seeking advice can also contact the mobile and digital consumer work team by phone on 0211 54222211 or by email at service@verbraucherzentrale.nrw.

The effects of high energy prices and increased inflation on the market and consumers in the Höxter district are clearly noticeable. Consumers have to spend more money on gas and electricity, which increases their financial burden. The consumer advice center provides important support and advice in this difficult situation. In addition to the energy problems, fraudulent activity has also increased online, causing consumers to lose money. The online tool “Fakeshop Finder” helps to check the reliability of online shops and avoid possible fraud.

Source: According to a report from www.nw.de