Decades of Municipalities Protest Against APE Fee Calculation and Distribution

Several municipalities and regions across the country have filed objections regarding the calculation of the green special fee they are entitled to receive due to the operation of renewable energy units in their areas. Initially, it should be noted that the legislative framework stipulates that 60% of the APE fee is distributed to the municipalities hosting these units, while 40% goes to residential consumers. Specifically, through a law passed in 2022, it was provided that the special fee for municipal authorities must allocate at least 60% towards environmental actions, local development projects, and social support in areas within the boundaries of the municipality where the station is installed, with the remaining percentage allocated for similar actions and projects in the rest of the region. This regulation has sparked reactions, with opposition parties and local entities pointing out that it represents an unfair transfer of resources away from the local communities hosting renewable energy projects. Recently, PASOK-KINAL submitted a relevant inquiry to Parliament, highlighting significant delays in the distribution of the special fee, especially in cases where objections were raised. According to documents from YPEN, for the special fees of 2020, 2021-2022, and 2023, a total of 27 objections have been filed by various municipalities and three regions. It is noted that the special fees for 2020 and 2021-2022 pertain to the fee for residential consumers, while the 2023 fee covers both municipal authorities and residential consumers. The objections concern a total amount reaching approximately 3.5 million euros. So far, only two cases have been reviewed by local committees, leaving the rest pending. Additionally, YPEN is considering changes to the APE fee to enhance benefits for local communities and address public reactions that often delay green projects.