Electricity theft has become a major issue across Greek islands, causing millions of euros in losses and raising costs for regular consumers.

This year alone, over 15,500 cases have been recorded, with the highest rates during the summer months in areas with heavy tourist activity. Ikaria leads with 41.7% of potential or confirmed cases, followed by Mykonos at 37.8% and Rhodes at 22.3%. Other affected islands include Kos (15.7%), Rethymno (15%), Tinos (12.9%), Santorini (12.6%), Paros (12.5%), Agios Nikolaos (9.4%), Heraklion (8.3%), Chania (7.5%), and Naxos (5.8%).

To combat the growing problem, the Greek electricity operator, DEDDIE, has strengthened its monitoring system with support from the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE). Tax data from citizens’ returns (forms E1, E2, and E3) will now be cross-checked with electricity usage, helping to identify consumers who tap into the grid illegally. This data complements information from smart meters, on-site inspections, and public complaints submitted via DEDDIE’s online platform.

The government has also increased fines for electricity theft. Since July 1, 2025, residential offenders face charges of €0.49453 per kilowatt-hour consumed without payment, up from €0.47217. Commercial consumers are fined €0.564 per kilowatt-hour, up from €0.54121. Beneficiaries of social tariffs are charged between €0.16893 and €0.3034 per kilowatt-hour, compared to €0.15371 to €0.28663 in June.