Energy: Mase, “Energy release 2.0” approved by the EU Commission

The European Commission has sent a letter welcoming the measure “Energy Release 2.0” , prepared by the Ministry of the Environment and Energy Security to support large electricity consumers, confirming its compatibility with the rules of the internal market and with the European discipline on State aid. “We have built a model that brings together industrial competitiveness, ecological transition and European rigor”, declared Minister Gilberto Pichetto .

“Support for large electricity consumers - he adds - is not a privilege, but a tool to defend employment, strengthen strategic supply chains and attract investments . With this measure we provide a concrete and sustainable response to the need for more stable energy prices, tying public aid to a clear industrial and environmental commitment: to return what has been received with new clean energy. It is a measure that looks to the future and represents an example of good collaboration between national and European institutions”.

The measure is divided into two phases: the first phase of support through the supply of electricity at a controlled price , 65 euros per MWh, and a second phase that requires beneficiaries, directly or through third parties, to fully return the benefit received through the construction or financing of new capacity from renewable sources . Following discussions with the Commission, changes were introduced, including the option offered to energy-intensive companies to transfer the commitment to return and build the new capacity to third parties identified through a special auction by the GSE. The mechanism, based on the use of renewable energy already managed by the GSE and on the activation of new green capacity, allows companies most exposed to the high cost of energy to be supported, while contributing to the objectives of decarbonisation, energy autonomy and just transition.