Keep energy grids state owned, say MPs

MPs from across the political spectrum think the country’s energy grids should remain in public hands, despite a court ruling on Tuesday which said the Dutch position contravenes EU law.

The Netherlands has passed a law forcing energy firms to separate into two companies: a commercial production arm and a network firm which must remain state controlled.
But energy firms have gone to court, arguing the separation leaves them vulnerable in the consolidating European energy market and makes it harder to attract finance.
The government is to appeal to the high court against yesterday’s ruling, which is likely to refer the issue to the European court for its opinion.
MPs have welcomed the decision to appeal but are to debate the issue with acting economic affairs minister Maria van der Hoeven next week.