#52026PC0275Reduced electricity tax for shore-side power in Belgian ports
AI-generated summary for informational purposes only. Not legal advice. See the original source for the authoritative text.
Belgium would be allowed to apply a reduced electricity tax rate to power supplied directly to commercial vessels while they are berthed in Belgian ports. The reduced rate would apply to shore-side electricity used by commercial sea and inland water vessels, including fishing vessels, but not private pleasure craft. The measure is designed to make it cheaper for vessels to plug into the port electricity grid instead of running fossil fuel generators on board. Shipping operators, port authorities, electricity suppliers, and businesses around Belgian ports should expect incentives for cleaner port operations, with possible benefits for air quality, CO2 emissions, noise, and nitrogen pollution.
AI-generated summary. May contain errors. Refer to official sources for legal decisions.
Key Changes
- Authorises Belgium to apply a reduced electricity tax rate of EUR 0.50 per MWh for shore-side power supplied to eligible vessels
- Limits the reduced rate to commercial vessels, including fishing vessels, and excludes private pleasure craft
- Sets a six-year authorisation period starting after publication of the Council decision