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From August to September, spending on housing, electricity and fuel increased one per cent. The biggest single increase was the 3.8 per cent hike in electricity rates for households. Since September last year household electricity prices have increased by nearly 10 per cent; the change accounts for nearly a third of the total growth in the consumer price index in the same period. The biggest rate increases occurred in the spring and early summer. From March to July prices increased by more than seven per cent. Around 40 per cent of the power plants in the sample have raised their rates since January. The power plants that have increased prices are spread throughout the country. A few power plants lowered electricity prices during the period.
Consumer prices in Norway rose 0.5 per cent from August to September, driven by higher electricity rates and a jump in clothing prices. From September last year to September this year (the 12-month growth rate) prices rose 1.3 per cent, down from 1.5 per cent in August. The all-items index for September was 264.9.
New clothes for autumn
After the annual summer clothing sales in July and August, prices normalized in September. Clothing prices are, however, still lower than they were one year ago, down 3.6 per cent, a trend seen throughout 1996. Nearly all product groups showed price increases. Night wear, blouses and dresses increased the most.