ATHENS — "In the period we are going through, our country, as well as the whole of Europe, is facing a serious energy crisis that puts an increasing burden on households," government spokesperson Yiannis Oikonomou said during a press briefing on Monday.

"The government is not just monitoring developments but taking actions to support society. We understand that citizens want to feel safe and as protected as possible from the risk of finding that their monthly budget, the money they have calculated they will need for heating and transport, is insufficient for their needs," Oikonomou said.

He pointed out: "Following the decision of the prime minister, we are strengthening and expanding the measures we have already announced for the support of households. These measures now amount to 500 million euros.

Specifically:

There is a doubling of the discount for electricity, with special welfare provisions for the most vulnerable households. The amount of the state subsidy for electricity bills from October 1 will for an average household be set at 18 euros per month, from the nine euros per month that was initially announced. Especially for the beneficiaries of the social residential tariff, the subsidy will amount to 24 euros.

At the same time, the Public Power Corporation (PPC) will proceed with the adjustment of its discount policy for consumption between 300-600 KWh per month, further reducing the charges, the cost, for an average household.

Moreover, in cooperation with DEPA, a discount of at least 15 pct will be given on the cost of gas supply to all households.

Oikonomou stressed that the number of households that will receive the aid will approach 1.5 million.