Environment & Energy
In reply to the discussion: Der Spiegel: How German Electricity Became A Luxury Item. [View all]Iterate
(3,021 posts)it would be about the same price as New York state, which is also approximately the EU average.
But its not. Half of the retail/residential price comes from taxes, the largest share of which is the federal pension fund. It is intentional pricing, and with broad public support. The goal is to keep consumption low, and that it does. You knew that. The Energiewende tax proportion of the added tax amounting to a few euros a month for most households. You knew that too.
The normal German household electricity bill ranges from 55 to 75 euros. Living on half of that is not difficult. Im guessing a fair number of Americans average over $100/month. You probably knew that as well.
Its been pointed out to you before. Gasoline is also high, much higher than the US. Why do you give a shit? They still generate 18% from nuclear power. Isnt that enough?
News just in...from inside sources:
The only way to get disconnected from a German utility is to not pay them for 4-6 months, and to make no calls, explanations, or arrangements. Or you can leave a large overdue balance with no payment. Its shocking, I know.
Possibly that can be avoided by signing up with one of the numerous discount tariff providers, often with a set usage and yearly price. The best deals are labeled "Öko", and the worst ones "Vattenfall".