The energy ministry is preparing to increase an electricity-cost subsidy package to between 280 and 300 million euros, from a 200 million-euro sum announced last month by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis at the Thessaloniki International Fair, as a result of the continuing surge in energy costs, which, if not combated, could have political ramifications.

The ministry’s response comes following the announcement of September’s increase in the wholesale electricity price average, the latest in a series of monthly rises. Wholesale electricity prices averaged 134.73 euros per MWh in September, up from 121.72 euros per MWh in August and 101.86 euros per MWh in July, all well over the January average of 52.52 euros per MWh.

Finalized decisions on the subsidy support package have yet to be taken but officials have already agreed to draw the amount to be provided to consumers from the Energy Transition Fund.

The expected subsidy increase for electricity consumption would result in support worth between 40 and 45 euros per MWh, instead of 30 euros per MWh, effectively resulting in a monthly electricity bill reduction of 14 to 15 euros for consumers.

The government is also looking to subsidize natural gas bills through an additional support package expected to be worth roughly 150 million euros. Retail natural gas prices have risen by approximately 500 percent since the beginning of the year.