In August 2024, wholesale day-ahead electricity prices saw significant increases across most European countries compared to July. According to Ember, the average prices were:

• Italy: €128.47/MWh (+14.3% m/m)

• France: €54.56/MWh (+15.8%)

• Germany: €82.09/MWh (+21.1%)

• Spain: €91.1/MWh (+25.7%)

• Sweden: €12.88/MWh (-38.9%)

The surge was driven by higher gas and carbon allowance prices and increased electricity demand due to a heatwave impacting several countries, including France and Italy. Ukraine saw a decrease in its average price to €126.7/MWh, down by 3.8% from July, despite a rise in domestic demand and supply.

Romania and Hungary faced challenges with increased imports due to high temperatures and technical issues affecting local production. In Ukraine, reduced imports and internal outages impacted the market, with a notable increase in imports towards the end of August due to severe infrastructure damage from missile attacks.

The European gas storage facilities reached 90% capacity ahead of schedule, a key factor for winter energy security. However, concerns over potential supply disruptions and market reactions to geopolitical developments remain.

Source: gmk.center