Higher energy bills are pushing Greeks to cut spending on food or health care, according to a European Investment Bank survey released Thursday. More than half of respondents reported making those sacrifices, showing how energy costs are affecting basic household needs.
The survey found 52% had reduced such expenses, compared with 38% across the European Union. Another 41% said they had turned down the heating at home, while 33% reported going into debt, seeking financial help or delaying payment of an energy bill. That last figure was the highest among EU countries, more than double the bloc’s 16% average.
Rising gas, electricity, heating oil and vehicle fuel prices had significantly weakened purchasing power for 78% of Greeks over the past year, against an EU average of 60%. Nearly a third, 32%, described the impact as very significant.
“Greek households are among those hardest hit by rising energy prices in Europe,” said EIB Vice President Ioannis Tsakiris.
Greeks report cuts in food or health spending as energy bills rise
The pressure has also changed how people travel. About 74% of Greeks said higher prices had affected their car use, the highest share in the EU. Forty-five percent reported reducing journeys for routine needs, including shopping and medical appointments. For comparison, 60% across the EU reported changing car use, and 31% said they had cut trips for basic needs.
Others changed how they traveled. Thirty-one percent replaced some trips by car with carpooling, public transportation or cycling. About 34% abandoned a holiday, weekend trip or visit to relatives or friends, while 25% drove more slowly to conserve fuel.
The financial strain is also shaping expectations for Europe’s energy transition. Seventy-two percent of Greeks called the transition urgent. Asked what it should achieve, 81% cited more stable or lower energy prices, 82% reduced dependence on imported oil and gas, and 78% slower climate change.
Greeks seek lower energy bills, solar power and stronger EU cooperation
If the EU moves too slowly, 81% fear higher long-term energy prices and living costs, while 80% see a risk of continued dependence on imported fossil fuels.
Support for cleaner energy was widespread. Eighty-four percent wanted low-carbon sources prioritized, with 61% choosing solar and 31% wind. On technology, 51% favored developing a European clean-technology industry, even if it takes longer, while 37% preferred faster deployment using imported equipment.
The survey also found 69% favored closer cooperation with other EU countries, and 62% supported jointly financing the energy transition.
Ipsos bva surveyed 1,000 people in Greece as part of a study of 23,000 residents aged 16 and older across all 27 EU countries.
