EC approves €45m Czech support scheme for refuelling and recharging stations for low emission vehicles
The European Commission (EC) has found that plans by the Czech Republic to support the creation of a network of refuelling and recharging stations for low emission vehicles to be in line with European Union (EU) state aid rules. In a statement posted on the EC’s Europa website on Friday (11 August), Commissioner Margrethe Vestager, who is in charge of competition policy, said: “The Czech scheme is yet another good example of how Member States can contribute to the fight against global warming. The scheme will promote alternative fuels and reduce harmful car emissions, and will encourage consumers and businesses to use greener transportation, without distorting competition “.
The scheme provides support of €44.5m over six years for the construction of publicly accessible recharging and refuelling stations for vehicles running on alternative fuels such as electricity, compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied natural gas (LNG) and hydrogen.
The infrastructure network will cover the entire country.
Companies already active in the alternative fuels sector can apply for this support, which will be awarded in four separate calls for tender, through an open and transparent procedure.