(GermanPolicy.com) – Due to higher energy prices and the expiry of the low VAT rates, inflation in Germany has risen. In August, consumer prices were 3.9 percent above the level of July, when the inflation rate was 3.8 percent. In June, the rate was 2.3 percent. This was announced by the Federal Statistical Office. Energy cost 12.6 percent more than in August a year ago, while consumer prices for food rose by 4.6 percent. There are several reasons for the rise in inflation, including base effects from low prices in the previous year.