Transport Online – Belgium comes with an extensive energy support package
BRUSSELS – Belgium is launching an extensive support package to deal with rising energy bills for citizens and businesses. This was announced by Belgian Prime Minister Alexander de Croo.
In the months of November and December, families will receive an allowance of 135 euros per month for gas and 61 euros for electricity. Not for the higher income allowance, although they do receive a tax advantage. Families that still have an advantageous energy contract are also excluded from the scheme.
The Belgian government has already taken various measures to reduce energy bills. For example, the social rate for the lowest incomes was expanded and extended. The VAT on gas and electricity will also be reduced. “The problem, however, is that the prices have remained so hard that the middle class also gets into trouble,” explains De Croo.
The social rate comes to about 20 percent of the population ten good. About 85 percent could benefit from this basic package, including the broad middle class. For families with oil heating, the existing check is increased from 225 euros to 300 euros.
The government is also taking measures in favor of companies. Companies in difficulty can spread their social security contributions over a long period of time. In addition, Brussels is introducing a temporary unemployment scheme for companies that run into problems due to high energy bills and have to shut down production, for example. This arrangement is with measures during corona. Companies are also protected against bankruptcies if they can no longer pay the energy bill. Belgium will also lower excise duties.
For an average baker, the advantage can be up to 325 euros. For small shops this can cost up to 1000 euros. A tax exemption will apply to regional aid measures. In particular, De Croo called on Belgium to also save energy. The energy you don’t use is the Watch energy, according to the premiere.