Judgment_paragraph 34 · Proceedings brought by Energiavirasto (C-578/18)

34In the second place, as recalled in paragraph 23 of this judgment, the purpose of Directive 2009/72 is, in particular, in accordance with Article 1 thereof, to lay down provisions on consumer protection and to define the rights of electricity consumers. Thus, Article 3 of that directive lays down the obligations of the Member States in order to ensure consumer protection. Article 3(7) requires them to ensure a high level of consumer protection, particularly as regards dispute settlement mechanisms. The measures to be taken by Member States in that regard pursuant to that provision and Annex I to the directive, to which it refers, are intended to ensure, under point 1(f) of that annex, that customers benefit from transparent, simple and inexpensive procedures for dealing with their complaints, such out-of-court dispute settlement procedures being designed to ensure fair and prompt settlement of disputes. To that end, Article 3(13) of Directive 2009/72 requires Member States to ensure that an independent mechanism such as an energy ombudsman or a consumer body is in place in order to ensure efficient treatment of complaints and out-of-court dispute settlements.