The Interim Government Assistance Framework for the Middle East Crisis (METSAF) will be in effect until December 31, 2026, providing targeted and time-limited support.
Increased compensation for energy costs
A key element of the structure is to increase the compensation of electricity prices for energy-intensive industries.
METSAF allows member states to increase the levels of support for electricity price compensation schemes approved under the Clean Industrial Deal state aid from 50 to 70 percent of acceptable electricity consumption costs, without requiring additional decarbonization obligations.
The structure also introduces a simplified mechanism that allows companies to receive support in the amount of up to 50,000 euros based on estimated fuel consumption using industry benchmarks.
METSAF allows partial accumulation with assistance provided in accordance with the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) State aid guidelines. Companies will be able to combine various support mechanisms for up to half of the total assistance, increasing overall efficiency.
The steel sector welcomes flexibility
The German Steel Federation (WV Stahl) welcomed this structure, noting that it provides important flexibility for energy-intensive sectors. CEO Kerstin Maria Rippel
