EU-UK Relations

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Safeguarding essential household energy consumption: the role of the rising block

Factsheet
Core services, including energy, food, water, housing and healthcare, are essential for a decent standard of living. The economic dynamics of these services in Europe, however, vary greatly, particularly in the extent of commercialisation. Essential healthcare stands out as a service delivered largely outside of the market; by contrast, food and energy are commercialised in most European countries. The commercialised status of energy in Europe can have an impact on living standards, particularly when accompanied by inadequate regulation.