Market Court rules in favor of Vaasan Sähkö Oy and Helen Oy over price hikes in Finland

The Market Court has issued a ruling stating that the price increases implemented by Vaasan Sähkö Oy and Helen Oy in the fall of 2022 were in accordance with contractual terms and legal regulations. This decision dismisses the claims made by the Consumer Ombudsman concerning the companies’ pricing procedures.

In spring 2023, the Consumer Ombudsman sought a preliminary ruling from the Market Court regarding price hikes in ongoing electricity consumer contracts. This was prompted by a significant increase in market prices and derivatives due to the ongoing energy crisis, which led to major rises in consumer electricity prices as well.

The Consumer Ombudsman assessed the practices of Vaasan Sähkö Oy and Helen Oy, noting that their methods for adjusting prices did not deviate from general industry practices. The ruling confirmed that there are no restrictions on the amount of a single price increase.

The Consumer Ombudsman expressed concerns regarding how significant changes could be made unilaterally by sellers in contracts like electricity agreements. However, the Market Court concluded that the companies had valid grounds to implement price increases based on contractual terms and electricity market regulations. They had also fulfilled their notification responsibilities. Given the significant change in circumstances, the companies’ actions were not deemed unreasonable.

Price changes must have a specified basis according to electricity market law and industry contract terms. The Market Court’s decision notes that the Consumer Ombudsman’s requests and demands have been rejected.

“This overall outcome is disappointing for consumers. We will closely examine the Market Court’s decisions and then decide whether to seek permission to appeal to the Supreme Court,” said Consumer Ombudsman Katri Väänänen.