II.1.3.

What are the benefits of greater transparency in wholesale  energy trading?

Answer: Wholesale energy markets provide key price signals which affect the choices of producers and consumers, as well as investment decisions in production facilities and transmission and distribution infrastructure. It is therefore essential that these signals reflect a fair and competitive interplay between supply and demand, and that no profits can be drawn from market abuse. Greater transparency in wholesale energy markets reduces the risk that markets are manipulated and the price signals distorted. Transparency in wholesale energy markets is thus crucial in ensuring that consumers pay the fair price for their gas and electricity. It also helps creating a level-playing field for all market participants.