The government, determined to ensure compensation for state-controlled power utility PPC over its decision to prematurely close down its lignite-fired power stations, is seeking a solution through the European framework of options, an energy ministry announcement has informed.

The Greek State has submitted a compensation request to cover extraordinary costs related to the premature closure of four PPC lignite mines and lignite fired power stations, the ministry’s announcement noted.

European Commission Vice-President Margrethe Vestager, also Brussels’ Commissioner for Competition, has informed that the Commission views favorably the Greek initiative for a premature closure of these lignite facilities and is now examining the legal grounds of the compensation request, the energy ministry’s announcement added.

The Greek government wants compensation for PPC as the utility’s outgoing units have potential for a longer life, meaning PPC is being deprived of further earnings through these facilities.

A successful Greek compensation bid could also help cover extraordinary costs linked to the restructuring of lignite-dependent local economies.

The energy ministry is basing Greece’s compensation bid on a recent European Commission decision approving 52.5 million euros for the Netherlands as compensation for the premature closure of its Hemweg coal-fired power station.

The Netherlands has implemented law forbidding the use of coal for electricity generation beyond January 1, 2030.