K. Mitsotakis: I would like a bigger Power Pass but it is within the measure of our national capabilities

“We will be next to every Greek woman and every Greek man, until this storm passes.” This message was sent by the prime minister, in his statement, on the occasion of the activation of Power Pass.

“Starting today, the State activates another weapon in the battle against punctuality, which besieges all countries and all households: the Power Pass application begins to retroactively compensate consumers for part of the electricity increases from last December until June . We are thus redressing an injustice. Within a few weeks, 3 million applications have been processed. And almost 2 million beneficiaries are already receiving amounts from 18 to 600 euros. Which, in combination with other discounts and subsidies, which also apply, mitigates the burden of price hikes from the war in Ukraine and the global energy crisis. In total, 260 million euros are credited to citizens’ accounts, notified by the platform or by a message on their computer. While another 40 million euros will be given immediately to cover and the accounts issued in June”, emphasizes Mr. Mitsotakis.

“This is yet another relief action. Made possible, however, thanks to development which offers us greater fiscal space. But also thanks to our choice to return the benefits from it to society. Because I know well the daily pressure exerted by the imported inflation. In this we are now raising another mound. Which obviously I would like it bigger. But which must be weighed in the measure of reality and our national endurance”, he notes.

The prime minister also points out that the new electricity support is a targeted intervention and, as he comments, accompanies the de facto neutralization of the readjustment clause that will come into effect from August.

“I want to remind you, however, that already the prices of natural gas have increased 6-fold compared to last year. No government can cover such an increase. It can only limit it. And that is what we are doing with initiatives, such as today’s, which cover the 60% of the increases that have been mediated. We are at war. And this is the cost of our national defense in the face of a global challenge, which calls for a European response. An answer, which our country will claim until it is given. In the meantime, however, the government will exhaust every fiscal margin to protect citizens’ purchasing power. But margins have limits. And anyone who promises easy solutions is just telling easy lies,” he emphasizes.

“I will not hide that the global situation is difficult. And everywhere, every measure seems small in front of the great needs. But I am also well aware of the abilities we have shown in the trials we have experienced. As well as the power of unity and stability. One, then, I can promise: That we will be next to every Greek woman and every Greek man, until this storm passes. Until we emerge victorious again. All together,” concludes the prime minister, in his statement.