During the month of May 2024, Italian citizens who benefit from energy market protection had to face a significant increase in the cost of natural gas. According to the latest disclosure from Arera, the Regulatory Authority for Energy, Networks and the Environment, the price of gas for the most vulnerable consumers has risen to 103.66 euro cents per cubic metre, marking a growth of 3.1%. compared to the previous month.
This price change not only weighs on the already fragile domestic economy of citizens under protection, but also offers an illuminating insight into the structure and distribution of energy tariffs in Italy. The details of the tariff highlight the following: gas supply and related activities absorb 38.86 cents per cubic meter, equivalent to 37.5% of the total expenditure. The portion destined for retail sales instead absorbs 6.15 cents, equal to 5.9% of the total.
As regards distribution, metering, transport services and other expenses incurred to guarantee equalization and quality, these represent 24.53 cents per cubic meter, corresponding to 23.7% of the total amount. General system charges, which include various administrative taxes and infrastructure maintenance costs, amount to 2.95 cents, or 2.8% of the total. Finally, taxes, often a significant item for any service in Italy, set a levy of 31.17 cents per cubic meter, calculating 30.1% of the total paid by consumers.
Analyzing the panorama of the energy industry, it is important to note how the price of the raw material, gas, has undergone an increase in wholesale prices: in May we find ourselves faced with 32.90 euros per megawatt hour, the equivalent of 0 .35 euros per cubic meter. This increase in wholesale tariffs implies a cascade effect that only affects final consumers, especially those in vulnerable conditions.
The critical aspect of this situation lies in the dynamics of the energy market, increasingly subject to international fluctuations and geo-political tensions which can drastically influence the prices of energy production and distribution. The increase observed in May, although moderate, is a symptom of a deeper concern that deserves continued observation and detailed analysis, not only to predict future economic developments, but also to ensure the protection of the most vulnerable consumers in the access to energy resources.
In conclusion, as Arera continues to monitor and regulate the energy market, it is essential that targeted policies and interventions are put in place to buffer the economic impacts on consumers and, simultaneously, seek forward-looking solutions in order to stabilize the energy sector in Italy . The current context requires a joint commitment between institutions, energy suppliers and consumers, oriented not only to the mere observation of market trends, but to the search for fair and sustainable management of energy resources.
