According to the Associated Press, the money covers production losses from what the country called uncompetitive mines as they begin to idle operations. It will also go to the severance and support of the nation’s soon-to-be-furloughed workers, many of which have been protesting the plan.
Safety work once the mines are closed is included in that total.
The European Commission, which issued its approval May 26, said state aid can be used for the closures so long as it does not distort competition.
According to commission data, coal makes up about 25% of the EU’s electricity production.
