A new directive on the deregulation of the electric power industry in the EU is projected to be ready in April, after completion of consultations with the European Parliament, Development Minister Akis Tsochadzopoulos told Parliament last Friday. In view of the new directive, the government will institute new, supplementary provisions in the existing law in Greece. He said the revision will greatly facilitate the construction of three private power stations and the pace of deregulation will enable the Public Power Corporation to continue playing a role as a public utility.
However, industry sources express grave concern over the ability of the present government in Greece, to introduce a new legal framework which will enable the construction and operation of private power generation stations. PPC’s union GENOP-ΔΕΗ has warned the government that in the case of any new legislation being introduced to enable private power generation they will respond with extended strikes and a shutdown of the country’s electricity grid. GENOP-ΔΕΗ leadership would like to see a continuation of PPC’s present monopoly status and therefore are against the introduction of any form of competition.