The German government has announced a bailout plan for energy giant Uniper, which has been hit hard by a drastic cut in natural gas supplies from Russia.

Russia reduced the amount sent via the Nord Stream pipeline to Germany by 60 percent in June. It shut down the pipeline earlier this month, citing maintenance work.

Deliveries resumed on Thursday, but the supply is at the same level as before the suspension.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced the bailout on Friday. He also said the government will take a 30-percent stake in the firm totaling about 270 million dollars.

Scholz said the utility will also be allowed to pass on some energy costs to customers, starting in September or October. He also vowed to take measures to help those struggling with higher prices.

Bills are likely to go up this autumn by about 200 to 300 dollars per year for a family of four.

Scholz acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding supplies from Russia, and called on people to save gas.