EAA comments on new environment and energy state aid guidelines

The state aid guidelines published today by the European Commission are a step in the right direction according to the European Aluminium Association (EAA).

In a statement, they said that it is clear that more needs to be done to restore Europe’s industrial competitiveness.

‘Electricity is a crucial cost factor for the aluminium industry. Due to its global pricing system, the important increase of the cost of renewable energy surcharges and of other environmental levies has become a major detrimental factor for the competitiveness of the whole aluminium value chain in Europe’.

Director general Gerd Götz said:

“EAA welcomes the sectoral approach pursued by the European Commission, acknowledging that some sectors are at a substantial cost disadvantage as compared with global competitors. Clarity and balanced rules across EU Member States were also needed. We regret however that the new guidelines still enforce additional burden to the industry. The state aid rules must now be accompanied by appropriate and long-term compensation measures for all costs related to climate and energy policies, also beyond 2020.”