National subsidy schemes varied considerably in scope and duration
Europe counts cost of uncoordinated energy strategy
Calls for EU to reflect on gas subsidy bill of €700bn as common purchase mechanism approaches
Europe is entering spring collectively celebrating having averted the major gas crisis that had been predicted over the winter and preparing to launch a common gas purchasing platform expected to further reduce its dependence on Russia. Yet its energy policies—particularly the steep bill for gas subsidies disbursed over the past year—are also coming under scrutiny, with experts saying better coordination between national bodies is necessary as well as more policies to help Europeans face the transition to renewable energy. “Over the past months, EU member states have been involved in a race to subsidise. Gas supply was limited, and hence the main effect of [the subsidies was to drive competi
Also in this section
28 April 2026
Oil traders warning of $200/bl oil are wrong, and the market should be wary of proclamations that the impact of the oil shortage has only begun to be felt and a that a ‘harsh adjustment’ is coming—even for industrialised nations
28 April 2026
Restoring supply from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and Iraq involves complexities far beyond simply adjusting operational controls
28 April 2026
Datacentres will guzzle power at a ferocious rate, but the impact on wider energy markets will be far more complex than previously thought
28 April 2026
The key energy player faces balancing regional routes, political complexities, and creating a clear strategic vision for energy security
