Energy costs put pressure on millions of European households ahead of winter
European households could face renewed pressure from rising energy costs this winter, with EU Energy and Housing Commissioner Dan Jørgensen warning that around 50 million Europeans could face difficult choices over how to cover basic household expenses.
Speaking to the Financial Times, Jørgensen said governments should take measures to shield households and European industry as energy prices rise again. He warned that higher living costs could increase social dissatisfaction and strengthen support for populist and far-right parties.
Jørgensen also stressed that Europe's green transition could lose public support if households struggle to afford basic necessities. He called on governments to reduce pressure on consumers, protect industry and reduce Europe's dependence on imported fossil fuels.
EUROPE PREPARES FOR A DIFFICULT WINTER
The European Commission has also been urging member states to prepare for the winter amid continued volatility in global energy markets.
In a September 25 update, the Commission said EU gas storage levels remained below historical levels but confirmed that gas supply across the bloc was stable. It also said there was no immediate security-of-supply risk and that protected customers, including households and essential services, are covered by EU gas-security rules.
The Commission has encouraged countries to reduce gas and electricity demand where necessary, arguing that lower demand can help ease pressure on prices during periods of constrained global supply.
Jørgensen said in a September 25 letter to EU energy ministers, cited by POLITICO, that reducing demand could be an effective tool for limiting prices while global energy markets remain volatile.
At the same time, the Commission has emphasized that the current situation differs from the energy crisis of 2021–22. The EU has since increased LNG import capacity, diversified its sources of supply and reduced overall gas demand.
GAS STORAGE REMAINS A KEY CONCERN
The EU's gas-storage strategy remains central to preparations for the 2026–27 winter. EU rules normally set a 90% storage target, while member states have been given greater flexibility under current market conditions.
The Commission has previously said that reaching 80% storage capacity would be sufficient to secure gas supplies for the coming winter under the current circumstances.
The European Commission's latest assessment therefore points to a situation of heightened price and market pressure rather than an immediate threat to the physical security of gas supplies. The bloc continues to monitor developments closely as geopolitical tensions and disruptions in global energy markets affect prices and supply conditions.
