Romania, in the top of the countries with the cheapest gases in Europe. Where are the highest prices
Romania and Croatia offer the lowest prices for natural gases in the European Union, while Italy and Portugal lead the top of the most expensive markets, Eurostat data shows for the second half of 2024.
Romania and Croatia offer the lowest prices for natural gas: Shutterstock
According to the latest report published by Eurostat, Romania and Croatia have the lowest prices for natural gas in Europe.
Price differences between European countries are considerable. According to Eurostat data, in Sweden, for 100 kWh of natural gas, consumers pay 18.93 euros. In the Netherlands, the price is 16.71 euros, while in Romania 5.41 euros is paid, and in Croatia only 4.56 euros. In Turkey, the price decreases even more, reaching 2.13 euros.
However, the specialists point out that, in the interpretation of these figures, the power to buy the population, which varies significantly between the European states, must be taken into account. Thus, a low price does not necessarily mean a lower burden for citizens, if the revenues are low.
Why have prices increase in some countries
The general increase in gas prices in the second half of 2024 is explained, according to Eurostat, by reintroducing the previously suspended taxes during the energy crisis caused by the Ukraine war.
“The increase is largely due to the fact that taxes have returned to their usual levels in many EU countries, after the exemption of taxes due to the energy crisis caused by Russia has been revoked”, Explained Eurostat.
Smart strategies in energy
Romania, as well as Croatia, managed to maintain low prices due to intelligent and ambitious energy strategies and by reducing dependence on Russian gas.
These are two Member States who have managed to reduce their addiction to Russia, while maintaining low prices due to their intelligent and ambitious energy strategies, notes Profit.ro.
Romania is already one of the most energy independent countries in the European Union and has clear plans to become fully autonomous in terms of natural gas.
Neptun Deep – the project that can change the game
A crucial project for Romania is Neptun Deep, which provides for the Black Sea gas extraction. It would become operational in 2027 and is estimated to double the national natural gas production.
Croatia, in turn, has launched an important terminal of natural liquefied natural gas since 2021, and intends to increase its deliveries by 82% over the next three years.
