Belgian government extends energy support measures until end of 2022

The Belgian government has extended the support measures to cushion the high energy bill until the end of this year. This was announced by Prime Minister Alexander De Croo during a press conference on Saturday evening. It concerns among others the reduced VAT rate of 6 percent and the social rate. An arrangement has also been worked out for co-owners, who until now have been left out.

"The war in Ukraine offers us a lot of uncertainty, for instance regarding the price of the energy bill, we want to offer certainty in times of uncertainty," De Croo said on Saturday evening.

That is why it was also decided to extend the support measures in the field of energy until the end of this year. This concerns the social rate for 2 million families, the VAT reduction to 6 percent on electricity and gas and the reduction of excise duties on fuels. The measures were originally planned to last until September 30.

A solution has also been worked out for co-owners, who until now have been left out, and the VAT on gas will be reduced. A budget of 70 million will be allocated for this purpose. The reduction in VAT on gas will also apply to residential care centres, hospitals, non-profit organisations and municipal authorities from 1 July, added Finance minister Vincent Van Peteghem.

If the high prices continue, there is no doubt that these measures will be extended at the beginning of next year, De Croo said. The government will decide whether to extend the measures in the first quarter of 2023 at a later date.

(TOM)

© BELGA PHOTO NICOLAS MAETERLINCK