Greek households and pensioners can expect fuel subsidies, a rent rebate and a bigger heating allowance before the new year under a winter support plan the government is preparing as energy prices climb.
With oil trading near US$110 a barrel and natural gas at levels last seen in the energy crisis, the government’s economic team wants enough fiscal room to keep support going all winter. The Ministry of National Economy and Finance sits at the centre of that team.
Officials expect a demanding season because of high energy costs. Still, the dates remain provisional, and amounts may change.
Key dates in the winter support plan
November brings the first milestones. New subsidies for heating oil, diesel and unleaded petrol are due on 2 and 16 November, with amounts set to match market conditions at the time.
On 30 November, more than €1.1 billion is due to reach households. That sum includes the rent rebate and a one-off €400 payment to pensioners over 65.
Under the winter support plan, December then brings further fuel subsidy rounds on the 1st and the 15th of the month.
Next, the heating allowance falls due on 23 December. Officials expect it to rise by 30 per cent.
Higher 2027 pensions follow on 27 December. Based on current estimates, the increase could exceed the 2.8 per cent written into the 2027 budget.
More help depends on Brussels
At the same time, Athens awaits a decision from the European Commission on its request for extra fiscal space. A green light could open the way for new measures early in the new year.
Options for widening the winter support plan include a new “cost-of-living cheque” for vulnerable households and families with children. Measures to hold down ferry ticket prices could also continue.
In addition, the winter support plan may add one-off, income-tested payments. That way, help would go to those most in need.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis warned of a difficult winter on 14 October. He pointed to the 30 per cent rise in the heating allowance for 1.2 million households.
Earlier, the government extended its fuel subsidy scheme to heating oil from 15 October, Greek City Times reported.
Source: ERT News
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