The Green Tank on ERT News: Targeted measures to bring down energy costs

Speaking during a news bulletin on ERT News on 19/10/2026, Nikos Mantzaris, co-founder and lead policy analyst at The Green Tank, discussed rising energy costs and the need for immediate, targeted measures that address the root causes of the problem.

As he explained, around one-third of Greece’s electricity is still generated from expensive, polluting fossil gas. Some of this electricity is exported, while Greek consumers bear the cost. Disincentives are therefore needed to ensure that gas is used only for the electricity generation essential to meeting the country’s needs. Accelerating battery deployment will also be crucial to further reducing gas use. Batteries can store cheap solar power generated at midday—which is currently curtailed—and make it available during the evening hours.

Self-consumption also needs a renewed boost. The new ministerial decision addresses several of the issues that have stalled the market over the past two and a half years. However, financial support is also needed, particularly for vulnerable households. Greece’s €4.8 billion Social Climate Fund – which was approved in August 2026 – can play an important role in supporting vulnerable households and reducing their reliance on fossil fuels in buildings and road transport.

Watch the excerpt from Nikos Mantzaris’ interview on ERT News’ 6 pm news bulletin on 19/10/2026 here.