Electricity distribution prices to fall in Helsinki
Helen Sähköverkko Ltd is reducing electricity distribution prices by an average of ten per cents as from 1 January 2015. The previous reduction in distribution prices took place in January this year.
The prevailing low market interest rates reduce the capital costs of Helen Sähköverkko Oy, which enables a reduction in the distribution prices.
The electricity distribution costs of a typical customer living in an apartment with an annual consumption of 2,000 kWh will fall by about ten euros a year. After the reduction, the electricity distribution costs of a typical customer living in an apartment will be about EUR 114 per year.
The electricity distribution costs of a typical customer with electric heating and an annual consumption of 18,000 kWh will fall by about EUR 54 per year. After the reduction, the electricity distribution costs of a typical customer with electric heating will be about EUR 570 per year. The example figures include value added tax, but not electricity tax.
Electricity network is constantly developed
Helen Sähköverkko Oy invests EUR 40–50 million per year in the development of the electricity network in the Helsinki region. This accounts for over a third of the distribution fees paid by its customers. Investment is required for the electricity distribution needs of the growing city and for upgrading the electricity network. It also ensures high security of electricity supply.
Helsinki’s electricity network is weatherproof
Electricity consumers in Helsinki have fewer power outages than customers elsewhere in Finland. The electricity distribution network in Helsinki is almost completely (98%) cabled and is therefore weatherproof. A new technology, due to which a fault in the electricity network does not always result in a power cut to the customers, has been introduced in the construction of the electricity network in the capital city. We have also invested in increasing the level of automation in the electricity network, which reduces outage times.
The reasonableness of electricity distribution prices is supervised by the Energy Authority. Helen Sähköverkko Oy carries out electricity network operations in the Helsinki network area. The company is part of the Helsingin Energia Group, which is owned by the City of Helsinki.