Minister outlines concept to consolidate energy sector

The Economy Ministry still believes that if the national energy sector is to be consolidated vertically, then it should be carried out according to market rules. "The process should be based on contractual agreements, rather than as a result of the decision of the worst type of owner - the state," said Deputy Economy Minister Jacek Piechota at a conference organized by magazine Nowy Przemysł. However, he added that his ministry would be willing to agree to vertical consolidation provided various conditions are met. "First of all, there must be a guarantee that capital groups would be created, which will not be able to turn themselves into corporations. Second, there must be an amendment to the law to allow the energy sector regulator to control costs within the groups," explained Piechota. (Puls Biznesu, pp. 1, 6) M.M.