As Europe faces an unprecedented energy crisis, there is a small region in southern Italy that is preparing to reduce its inhabitants’ gas bills by at least 50 percent, offsetting the general increase in prices. This is Basilicata and the explanation comes from an agreement reached between the regional government and the oil companies Eni, Total and Shell.
According to El Economista, the governor of Basilicata, Vito Bardi, approved a new law so that the cost of gas consumed by the inhabitants is not reflected in their bills, having to pay only the price of transport and associated services. That is, gas consumption in the region will be free.
The agreement of the public official with the oil companies guarantees the free consumption of 160 cubic meters of gas per year until 2029, which serve as “environmental compensation” for the mining activity that the companies carry out in the area and the consequent disturbances to the environment.
This measure will only benefit families, leaving out companies, and only the first home. Quoted by the same newspaper, Corriere della Sera predicts that Some 110,000 households see their bill reduced by at least half since October this year.
Basilicata is known as the “Texas of Italy” for having the largest oil and gas reserves on the European continent. Despite the clear associated economic benefits, this move is surrounded by controversy at a time when the country is halting energy exploration in the region, mainly due to environmental concerns.
Oil and gas production in Italy has become a controversial issue ahead of elections on September 25, called by President Sergio Mattarella after the country’s prime minister resigned in July this year. While in office, Mario Draghi made reducing reliance on Russian gas one of his priorities, leading to a halving of imports fueled by the creation of new deals, particularly with Algeria.
Source: Observadora
