The government has unveiled a €1.2 billion-heavy plan to help companies most affected by the energy crisis, including with measures such as subsidies for electricity, gas and steam, a state subsidy scheme for furlough and part-time work, and liquidity loans.
The legislation, adopted by the government on Tuesday, determines that the measures will take effect only if the prices of electricity, natural gas and steam increase by over 50% compared to 2021. The subsidies will cover between 40% and 80% of eligible expenses.
“This is one of the broadest packages of aid in Slovenia’s history. It encompasses all industries and all companies, from small to large. The aid targets businesses that will truly need it,” Economy Minister Matjaž Han said.
“The business sector participated in the drafting of this bill all along and we took its proposals into account as much as possible,” said Han, adding that the bill used to the maximum possible extent the possibilities of the EU’s temporary crisis framework.
Overall, liquidity loans of €250 million will be available, subsidies electricity, gas and steam are valued at €850 million, and the furlough and part-time work schemes at €100 million.
The legislation is slated for passage in parliament this month and is due to take effect on 1 January.
(Sebastijan R. Maček | sta.si)
Source: euractiv.com
