The
European Union antitrust authorities said Wednesday they are opening an
in-depth investigation to assess whether Germany is distorting competition by
exempting large electricity consumers from paying network charges.
"If
this turns out to be the case the Commission will further examine whether the
exemption is likely to unduly distort competition in the EU or whether it can
be justified," the European Commission, which has antitrust powers in the
EU, said in a statement. "Opening an in-depth investigation does not
prejudge its outcome. It allows Germany and third parties to comment on the
measure under review," it explained.
According
to German law, since 2011 large electricity consumers are exempt from paying
network charges for an amount estimated roughly at 300 million euros ($390
million). A special levy on final electricity consumers makes up for the money
discounted, an issue that has prompted many consumers associations, energy
companies and citizens to complain to the commission.
"The Commission's preliminary view is that
the...surcharge may constitute a State resource and that the exemption seems to
give the beneficiaries a selective advantage compared to their competitors in
other member states," the commission said.