Slovenian Parliament approves aid to vulnerable groups and companies to reduce living costs – EURACTIV.com
The most vulnerable groups of the population and companies in Slovenia, which have been severely affected by the high prices of gas and electricity, will receive extraordinary help to reduce living costs, according to two laws that were unanimously approved by the Parliament on Wednesday.
As part of the EUR 41 million package for the most vulnerable groups, around 110,000 high-risk individuals – recipients of social assistance, poor pensioners and the disabled – will be entitled to a one-off payment of EUR 200.
The aid will be distributed from November to the end of March, with 27 million euros paid out this year and 14 million euros next year. Payments will have no strings attached, and recipients will be free to use the money however they see fit.
The second aid package, worth 40 million euros, is intended for companies that need help with higher electricity and gas costs, 20 million euros will be available this year, and 20 million euros next year.
Depending on the type of aid, the state will finance beneficiaries with 30% or 70% of energy costs.
Businesses have welcomed the help, but the corporate sector says much more will be needed.
The government has announced that a more extensive aid package will be ready for next year, when more companies are expected to struggle due to the end of long-term contracts, under which many are still paying relatively low prices for electricity and gas compared to the current market. prices.
Prime Minister Robert Golob said up to 1 billion euros in aid may need to be provided next year if prices remain as high as they are now.