In Eastern countries energy is even more expensive than in Western countries, although purchasing power is lower.
EconomyEuropean Union
- Error detected
- The core claim that energy is 'more expensive in Eastern countries than in Western countries' is factually incorrect when referring to nominal prices. Eurostat data for H1 2025 shows Eastern EU countries like Hungary (€0.1040/kWh) and Bulgaria (€0.13/kWh) have some of the lowest electricity prices in the EU, while Western countries like Germany and France have higher prices.
- Omissions
- The claim fails to distinguish between nominal prices and purchasing power adjusted prices. While Eastern EU countries have lower nominal electricity prices, energy costs may represent a higher share of household income due to lower purchasing power.
- Data is from first half of 2025 (published by Eurostat), which is the most recent available data prior to March 2026.
- The claim does not specify whether it refers to electricity, gas, or overall energy prices.
- Western EU countries like Ireland, Denmark, Belgium and Germany typically have among the highest electricity prices in the EU, not the lowest.