BERLIN -- Germany says it will change its rules on energy discounts for companies that use large amounts of electricity to satisfy the European Union's executive Commission.
The changes will allow companies to continue receiving a discount on a surcharge used to promote renewable energy and help Germany wean itself off nuclear power.
The Commission in December started investigating whether the discounts violate EU rules on state aid. On Tuesday, Economy and Energy Minister Sigmar Gabriel said Germany has now completed talks with Brussels and is certain that adjustments to the system will mean it complies with EU rules.
Around 2,000 companies were largely exempt from the surcharge that other consumers pay. Gabriel says the number of companies now eligible for full discounts will be cut by under 400.
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