Belgium is launching a broad support package to tackle rising energy bills for citizens and businesses. This was announced by Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo.
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In November and December, families will receive a check of 135 euros per month for gas and 61 euros for electricity. The surcharge does not apply to higher incomes, although they receive a tax advantage. Families who still have an advantageous energy contract are also excluded from the regime.
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The Belgian government has already taken several measures to reduce energy bills. For example, the social rate for the lowest incomes has been widened and extended. VAT on gas and electricity also fell. “The problem, however, is that prices have continued to rise so fast that even the middle class gets into trouble,” explained De Croo.
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Basic package
The social rate benefits about 20 percent of the population. About 85% could benefit from this basic package, including the broad middle class. The government is also taking measures in favor of businesses. Companies in difficulty will be able to spread their social security contributions over a long period of time. Furthermore, Brussels is introducing a temporary unemployment scheme for companies that encounter problems due to high energy bills and have to, for example, stop production. This arrangement is comparable to the measures taken during the crown. Companies are also protected against bankruptcy if they can no longer pay their energy bills and Belgium will lower excise duties.
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Snacktaria ‘t Harkje received an energy bill of no less than 50,000 euros in September. It is still unclear whether the energy company is to blame:
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