People in Norway changing how they use energy to keep costs down

By Leila Nezirevic

LONDON (AA) - Norwegians are starting to consume energy more wisely to try to save money amid an energy crisis in the country, local media reported Tuesday.

Energy firms are reporting that consumers are using electricity on the days when energy is cheaper and are avoiding consumption at peak times, according to daily Bergenavisen.

Electricity firm BKK Nett based their usage analysis on around 44,000 customers in the city of Bergen and found changes in how people use power.

However, the firm said despite seeing these changes, factors such as weather and temperature could also be contributing to new habits, Bergenavisen reported.

According to the outlet the electricity prices are fluctuating throughout the day and prices tend to be higher in the morning and evening

The Nordic country has seen soaring gas and electricity costs with prices estimated to rise to as high as 20 Norwegian kroner ($1.86) per kilowatt hour (kWh) in southern Norway.

Norway is investing 41 billion kroner ($4 billion) in subsidies to help out households with electricity bills.

The government is covering 90% of the bill where the cost exceeds 70 kWh, however households are still struggling to cope with the high prices.

The war in Ukraine, high gas prices, low reservoir filling levels, along with power export cables have all led to a sharp spike in energy costs in Norway.

Earlier this month, the Nordic country presented short-term energy relief to ease the shock of high electricity rates for businesses and households.

A total of 92 relief proposals were put forward by the government however the plan failed to spark support in the country.