I have to strongly agree with the first part regarding the so called "out of control costs": Yeah, electricity is much cheaper in the US than here, but so what?

I have to strongly agree with the first part regarding the so called "out of control costs": Yeah, electricity is much cheaper in the US than here, but so what? Often people on HN (especially those in the states) make claims like "people ought to see the real costs on their bills", especially when it's about subsidies (e.g. via public health care). But, well, here is the thing: Energy in the US is greatly subsidized. Not necessarily monetarily, but regarding environmental costs. Gallon of gasoline for cheap bucks for thirsty cars? Even cheaper electricity for Bitcoin mining? Yeah, I suppose a lot of the extra costs here end up in some company pockets - but if this causes people to be more responsible with their power usage then that's an acceptable trade-off for me. As for the second part: I know a lot of grid-balancing happens cross-border in the EU, but I didn't look up numbers, so there is not a lot I can objectively say on that topic. Personally, I pay a little more for "clean" energy. I know I still get the same mix like anyone else, but my energy supplier has to buy my personal demand from more eco-friendly sources. Yes, it is still "a spit in an empty pool", but that's still better than taking a dump in the river on bathing day just because everyone else is doing it.