22/07/2010 (Agence Europe) - On Tuesday 20 July, the European Commission gave its green light to regional investment aid of €8.5 million to the Spanish company Silicio Solar SAU for the production of solar wafers in Puertollano, Ciudad Real (Castille-La Mancha). The plan comprises investment of a total of €219 million for the construction of a new factory alongside the existing one. The Commission took the view that the measure was compatible with the guidelines for regional state aid 2007-2013, and in particular with the rules concerning major investment plans. It concluded that overall, the positive effects of the aid on regional development would outweigh any possible competition distortions it may cause. This investment project is expected to create 400 jobs in Puertollano. The Spanish authorities previously granted aid of €20.9 million to the same investment project under an authorised aid regime. (L.C./transl.fl)