State Support

Under European Union rules, it is unlawful for EU Member States to provide financial or other assistance to selected companies, without the specific approval of the European Commission. We have advised both EU Member States and companies on all aspects of the EU state aid rules, and have particular expertise in financial services, postal services, media, infrastructure projects and energy.

‘If a contract is granted by a state-owned company at a favourable rate, that could be State aid. State aid is unlawful until it is authorised by the European Commission’

Becket McGrath, Partner

CLIENTS & CASES

  • ALRO in relation to a EC state aid investigation regarding a Power Purchase agreement with Hidroelectrica.
  • ALRO on the EC state aid investigation into the Romanian renewable energy (“Green Certificates”) scheme, and subsequent amendments to the scheme.
  • Bpost in relation to EC state aid investigation regarding compensation for services of general interest, and related litigation.
  • National Media Federation as a complainant to the EC against state broadcaster.

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