ANP
News from the NOS•today, 20:39
The government wants to bear half of the increase in energy costs of small and medium-sized enterprises. In the next period, between 2.5 and 3 billion euros will have to be allocated. Sources confirm this to the NOS after a message from The Telegraph. The support package has been in preparation for several weeks and is almost ready.
It concerns companies that spend at least 12.5% of their turnover on energy costs, energy-intensive companies such as bakers and butchers. To ensure that these are companies that consume a lot of energy, the government also sets a minimum consumption: entrepreneurs must use a minimum of 5,000 cubic meters of gas per year, or 50,000 kilowatt hours of electricity. Additionally, companies can have up to 250 employees.
There is a ceiling on financial support, which is still under negotiation. It will probably be a maximum of € 160,000 per company.
The support is valid for at least one year and starts in the spring. Until then, these entrepreneurs can avail themselves of a state guarantee if they take out a bank loan. They can also get a deferred tax payment, just like in the days of the crown. The plan will be presented on Friday after the Council of Ministers.
Consumer compensation was recently announced.
