Slovenia moves to curb electricity and gas price spikes with temporary approval requirement

Facing heightened uncertainty in energy markets, the Slovenian Government has adopted a temporary rule that tightens how electricity and natural gas suppliers can adjust retail prices. Under the regulation, suppliers must secure prior approval before increasing prices for selected customer categories, a step designed to prevent abrupt and potentially excessive energy cost surges.

The government said the decision is based on existing legislation that permits state intervention in pricing during exceptional market circumstances. Authorities pointed in particular to situations where there is a risk of major disruptions or threats to social stability, using the mechanism to create a more controlled and predictable pricing environment while volatility persists.

Who is covered by the approval requirement

Under the new framework, energy suppliers must apply for official authorization before adjusting retail prices for specific consumer groups. In electricity, the rules apply to households, small businesses, and shared consumption in residential and mixed-use buildings.

For natural gas, the scope is broader. It covers households and district heating users, essential public services including schools and healthcare institutions, as well as selected small enterprises and heat distributors.

Purpose: protecting vulnerable consumers during volatility

Officials emphasized that the main objective is safeguarding vulnerable consumers and reducing the risk of energy poverty or restricted access to essential services. The approval process is intended to enable a timely government response to market pressures while supporting stability for end users.

The regulation entered into force on 10 April and is set to expire after six months. That timeline will allow authorities to reassess prevailing market conditions and determine whether adjustments are needed based on evolving economic and social developments.