In response to the ongoing energy crisis linked to the Iran war, the European Commission has announced plans to cut electricity taxes and incentivize the transition to clean energy. The initiative aims to make electricity cheaper than oil and gas, thereby reducing consumer bills and encouraging the adoption of cleaner technologies. The commission will implement temporary state aid rules to allow member countries to shield consumers and businesses from high energy prices, emphasizing that any support must be targeted and temporary. Notably, the commission has chosen not to impose a windfall tax on oil and gas companies, despite calls from several EU finance ministers. Energy and housing commissioner Dan Jørgensen highlighted the importance of investing in clean energy to foster economic growth and reduce reliance on foreign fuels. The commission will also set an electrification target and propose actions to lower electricity costs relative to fossil fuels, which experts believe is crucial for wider adoption of clean technologies. However, green groups have criticized the plans as inadequate, urging for stronger measures such as windfall taxes on oil profits. The commission's proposals will be legally formalized in May, with a focus on reducing network and tax charges that constitute over 50% of average household electricity bills across the EU.