Greece offers free electricity in bid to stem soaring smog levels

Greece has started offering free electricity to many low-income families in an effort to curb the use of firewood, which officials say has caused “alarming levels” of air pollution.

In recent weeks, pollution levels have soared in the capital and other major cities. In particular, the amount of particulate matter in the air over the northern suburbs of Athens was measured at twice its normal level. Officials are blaming the smog largely on an increase in the use of firewood to heat homes.

For poorer communities, burning wood has become a cheaper alternative to buying fuel, the cost of which has increased over the last two years. Energy prices soared after new tax hikes were imposed on the country following the EU-IMF bailout.

Now, under the new measure, families that qualify for “low-income” status will receive two days of free electricity for every one day smog levels reach “alarming levels,” equivalent to 150 milligrams per cubic meter.