Since 2010, gas and electricity prices have strikingly increased. The main reason for the increase of prices is the increase in wholesale costs on the support of the tentative global economic recovery and expectations of higher requirement.

OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) is an oil cartel whose mission is to coordinate the policies of the oil-producing countries. The goal is to secure a steady income to the member states and to secure supply of oil to consumers.

Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovich has given assurance to Austrian officials that his country is willing to maintain close ties with Europe, said the foreign ministry in Vienna. A ministry spokesman said that Yanukovich have told them that they have not at all turned their back on Europe. They are looking forward to continue close operation instead.

The US Solar Decathlon of the year 2013 was held at Orange County Calif. Teams from Central Europe rules the score board by grabbing top positions. Though one formidable Southwest candidate, Team Las Vegas is placed at second position.

German-speaking Europeans have come out as a winner for the third time in the history of 11 years of the event.