Despite the rapid development of renewable energy in Europe, residents of certain countries continue to pay some of the highest electricity tariffs. Electricity remains most expensive for households in Ireland and Germany, while the lowest prices are recorded in Hungary and Malta. This report is based on an analysis by the energy company 1KOMMA5° and Eurostat data.
Where are the highest electricity prices in Europe
According to the results of the second half of 2025, the average electricity price in the European Union was 0.29 euros per kWh, including taxes and fees.
The top five countries with the highest tariffs are:
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Ireland — 0.40 euros per kWh.
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Germany — 0.39 euros.
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Belgium — 0.35 euros.
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Denmark — 0.33 euros.
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Austria — 0.33 euros.
Countries with high tariffs also include the Czech Republic (0.32 euros), Italy (0.30 euros), and Romania (0.29 euros per kWh).
Where is electricity the cheapest
The lowest electricity prices among EU countries are recorded in Central and Eastern Europe.
The five countries with the most affordable electricity are as follows:
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Hungary — 0.11 euros per kWh.
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Malta — 0.13 euros.
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Bulgaria — 0.14 euros.
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Croatia — 0.17 euros.
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Slovakia — 0.19 euros.
For comparison, in Poland, the average tariff is 0.27 euros per kWh, while in France it is 0.26 euros.
Why Germany remains among the leaders in electricity prices
Analysts paid special attention to Germany. In 2025, the country generated more electricity from wind and solar than any other EU state. The share of renewable sources in Germany's energy balance reached 59%.
Despite this, German households pay about 0.39 euros per kWh, which is approximately one-third higher than the average in the European Union.
Experts explain this by the so-called merit order principle. The cost of electricity is determined by the price of the most expensive generation source necessary to meet demand. When renewable sources are insufficient, gas or coal power plants are connected, which automatically raises the final tariff for consumers.
It should be noted that Ukrainians have had their preferential electricity tariff canceled.