The user's spending increased by 12.7% compared to the previous months in September. This increase is due to the new rise in wholesale market prices. The update on monthly conditions of the Vulnerability Protection Service, which affects approximately 2.3 million clients, was communicated by Arera. In September, the CMEM component, covering the gas supply costs, has been set at €78.80/MWh, equivalent to about €0.843 per cubic meter. This component is updated every month by the Authority based on the average of day-ahead quotes registered at the Psv, the Italian wholesale market.

The increase in raw material costs has pushed the overall price of natural gas to 162.02 cents per cubic meter, equivalent to approximately 1.62 euros for the new vulnerable customer type identified by Arera in a family with annual average consumption of 1,100 cubic meters. The energy component continues to represent the main part of the bill. The gas delivery weighs 87.47 cents per cubic meter, accounting for 53.99% of the total expense, while other 5.83 cents, equivalent to 3.6%, are linked to the sale at the point of sale. In summary, therefore, natural gas affects 57.59% of the bill.

Transport and management fees are 24.19 cents per cubic meter, equivalent to 14.93% of the expense; general system burdens amount to 4.98 cents, or 3.07%, while taxes reach 39.55 cents, or 24.41%, of the bill. The rise in bulk prices is transferred to the 2.3 million vulnerable customers. Raw materials cost 78.80 euros per megawatt hour, while the comprehensive price reaches 1.62 euros per cubic meter. This increase is mainly due to the change in market prices, which has led to a significant increase in the supply costs for vulnerable customers.

The economic conditions of these times can drastically affect their finances, making it difficult to purchase food, water, and other essential necessities. Additionally, an increase in bulk prices has had a positive impact on the quality of gas supply, improving the energy security of consumers. However, this increase can be considered as a consequence of a more global economic situation, where economic policies play a crucial role in determining the production conditions of energy. The spending on gas supply for vulnerable customers is not only a financial problem but also a security issue.

This increase can have a negative impact on the health and daily life of many people, especially if we consider the poverty or unemployment conditions in which these families live. To solve this problem, an integrated approach is needed that takes into account both economic and social dimensions. The government must take concrete measures to ensure that vulnerable clients are treated with equity and dignity, avoiding further increases in energy bills.

At the same time, it is important to promote policies that encourage economic growth and reduce dependence on gas, making energy production more efficient and thus reducing the pressure on energy bills. Finally, it is fundamental to maintain an open dialogue between the various actors involved in the production and distribution of energy, including public operators, private entities, and final consumers. A cooperative and collaborative approach can help find innovative and enduring solutions.