Cremona’s Energy Crisis: Families adn Businesses Grapple with Soaring Gas Bills
The energy crisis gripping Cremona has left families and businesses reeling as they face unprecedented increases in gas bills. Customers of A2A, the region’s primary energy provider, have been hit with shocking charges for November and December, far exceeding expectations.
One reader shared their experiance: “Compared to last year,I consumed 7.7% less Smc, but I am asked to pay 20% more.” The numbers paint a stark picture: 528 cubic meters consumed versus 572 a year ago, yet the bill surged from €565 to €681.
This reality starkly contrasts with the predictions of Stefano Besseghini, president of Arera, italy’s energy market regulation agency. Besseghini had forecasted a “somewhat arduous” 2025, with gas bill increases of 9-10% for typical households. Instead, Cremona residents are seeing hikes double that figure.
The Broader Impact on Vulnerable Consumers
According to Altroconsumo, the price of gas grew by 2.5% in December, with further increases expected. The Energy Authority has also warned of an 18.2% rise in electricity prices in the first quarter of 2025. Those most affected are vulnerable customers on protected tariffs and those with variable-price contracts in the free market.
Guido Guidesi, Lombardy’s councilor for economic development, has voiced frustration over the lack of European intervention.“With such a high financial speculative influence on energy prices,” he explained, “Italy is not attractive for new investments and risks losing entire production chains, starting from the steel industry.”
Businesses Sound the Alarm
The crisis extends beyond households.Andrea Badioni, president of Confocommercio Cremona, has called for urgent action. “Structural and immediate measures are needed,” he emphasized. “The gas price cap, incentives for energy efficiency, and direct support for businesses must become absolute priorities on the political agenda.”
Badioni also stressed the importance of accelerating investments in renewable energy and diversifying supply sources to reduce dependence on foreign markets.
Key Data at a Glance
| Metric | 2023 | 2024 | Change |
|——————————–|———-|———-|————|
| Gas Consumption (Smc) | 572 | 528 | -7.7% |
| Gas Bill (€) | 565 | 681 | +20% |
| predicted Gas Price Increase | – | 9-10% | Double |
| Electricity Price Increase (Q1 2025) | – | 18.2% | – |
A Call to Action
The situation in Cremona underscores the urgent need for policy reforms and strategic investments in energy infrastructure. As families and businesses struggle to cope, the question remains: will policymakers act swiftly to mitigate the crisis, or will the burden continue to fall on those least able to bear it?
For now, the people of Cremona are left to navigate a challenging energy landscape, hoping for relief on the horizon.
