In 1996, the government introduced an extra levy on electricity and natural gas. The government hopes to create more awareness and efficiency. In 2007, the levy was 0.1531 euro per cubic metre of gas, excluding VAT for the first 5 thousand cubic metres. Lower rates apply to large-scale consumers (usually companies). Additionally, the energy levy is partly returned. The size of the tax reduction may change from one year to the next. In 2007, the tax reduction was 199 euro, excluding VAT. The return is deducted from the electricity bill. Back to article