Sheer horror because of the energy prices
Business
The amounts for natural gas on the bills of some Salzburg households have quadrupled in recent weeks. The development also triggers empty horror among those who are not registering quite as high inflation. Experts expect even higher prices – also for electricity.
Let’s take the tenant of a Salzburg apartment with 90 square meters as an example. His gas bill increased from 44 to 191 euros. Such price increases can result from a change of provider or from a company in a state in which short-term price fluctuations are charged directly to the customer. This is not to be expected at Salzburg AG, according to this company.
Salzburg AG against usurious prices
According to Salzburg AG, an average household with an annual gas consumption of 15,000 kilowatt hours now incurs additional costs of almost 26 euros per month. In any case, the population expects the sharp rise in energy costs on many levels.
Cooperative with a fixed contract for three years
For systems of the non-profit housing developers, the regulations will be increased – albeit to a limited extent, emphasizes Stephan Gröger, Director at Heimat Österreich: “We have probably negotiated with one of our suppliers – above all Salzburg AG. We could negotiate a three-year contract there again and have fixed terms. The prices for our customers will not increase as much. In addition, we spoke to the state councilor to cushion further cost increases – with the housing allowance.”
AK advises to save money
According to the consumer advocate, energy prices have risen by up to 30 percent on average since the beginning of the year
Christian Obermoser from the Chamber of Labor: “Changing the form of heating or the provider is probably no longer expedient in view of the winter. There is currently little that can be done to prevent price increases. People should be encouraged to save and put the climate bonus aside in order to be prepared for the next bill.”
The coming year will be decisive, says Obermoser. The Chamber of Labor fears massive repercussions. It is said that the hitherto robust middle class will also be increasingly hit hard.