Rule changes mean more small businesses are eligible for energy bill assistance
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The Cabinet has lowered the threshold for small businesses to request assistance in paying their utility bills. Critics said the rule would exclude many businesses in need of help.
of Compensation system It was supposed to be open to all SMEs spending at least 12.5% of their turnover on energy, but that figure has now been reduced to 7%.
The plan aims to target energy-intensive businesses, such as bakeries and saunas, so they can better cope with skyrocketing electricity and gas prices.
Small business association MKB-Nederland said the new limits mean tens of thousands more businesses will be eligible for financial assistance. However, the organization said the maximum compensation package of €160,000 should also be raised.
The plan needs to be approved by the European Commission to avoid being seen as illegal state aid to the industry.
Only companies with less than 250 employees and an annual turnover of less than €50 million are eligible to apply.
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https://www.dutchnews.nl/news/2022/11/rule-change-means-more-small-firms-will-qualify-for-energy-bill-aid/ Rule changes mean more small businesses are eligible for energy bill assistance
