21/11/24 (Agence Europe) – On Thursday 21 November, the European Commission approved a €578 million State aid scheme for Romania, aimed at reducing the tax on electricity for energy-intensive businesses. This measure, in force until 2031, is designed to prevent companies from relocating to regions with less stringent climate standards. It requires beneficiaries to reduce their CO2 emissions, to cover at least 30% of electricity consumption with carbon-free sources, or to invest at least 50% of the aid in sustainable projects. Aligned with the Green Deal, the scheme supports energy-intensive industries exposed to international competition and replaces a similar scheme approved in 2014. Beneficiaries will receive a reduction in levy of between 75% and 85%, depending on their exposure to risk. See details: https://aeur.eu/f/ef9 (IS)