Portugal questioned the benefits of the idea of ​​the EU on the mandatory saving of electricity

Portugal generally agreed with the proposals of the European Commission to combat rising prices in the energy sector, but proposed to clarify the initiative to reduce electricity consumption, since “the benefits are not yet obvious,” said Duarte Cordeiro, Minister of the Environment and Climate of Portugal.

“As for measures to reduce the consumption of electricity [которые Брюссель предлагает сделать обязательными]given that their benefits are not yet obvious, we ask that they be given the status of voluntary and that countries be allowed to independently implement them, ” said Cordeiro to CNN Portugal.

Other important measures, according to the minister, are the introduction of marginal gas prices and the creation of a joint platform for gas purchases.

7 September President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen statedthat the EC intends to present a proposal on setting a ceiling price for Russian gas at the EU Council meeting on Friday. As Reuters wrote, EU energy ministers failed agree on the introduction of a price ceiling. Bloomberg sources explained that the EU countries are in no hurry to limit prices only for Russian gas due to fears that the Russian Federation in response may completely stop its supplies. In addition, EC suggested to require the countries of the union to reduce electricity consumption by 10% compared to the average monthly figure for the past five years and by another 5% over this during peak hours.

On July 20, the EC outlined emergency plans for countries to reduce gas consumption by 15% until March 2023. The EC also warned countries that without serious cuts, they could experience fuel difficulties in winter if Russia cuts off supplies.