SYRIZA-PS criticizes energy escape clause as fiscal flexibility, not free EU funds

The SYRIZA-PS political party has issued a statement regarding the energy escape clause, asserting that it represents fiscal flexibility rather than new, free European funding. According to the party, while the European Commission's positive recommendation creates additional fiscal room for energy investments, it does not exempt the national budget from the associated costs, nor does it guarantee lower utility bills for households and businesses.

The party highlighted delays in the development of energy storage and electrical grids, citing extensive cuts in renewable energy production. SYRIZA-PS is calling for greater transparency in how resources are managed, demanding that the government clarify the criteria for project selection, the specific beneficiaries, and the expected social and fiscal benefits.

Furthermore, the party emphasized the need for investments to support clean energy utilization, energy savings, vulnerable households, and a just transition for lignite-producing regions. They urged the government to ensure that funds support additional investments without excluding small and medium-sized enterprises, energy communities, and small-scale producers.