On Tuesday, December 18, the European Commission found that an integrated project jointly notified by France, Germany, Italy, and the UK for research and innovation in microelectronics, a key enabling technology, is in line with EU State aid rules and contributes to a common European interest.
The four Member States will provide in the coming years up to €1.75 billion in funding for this project that aims to unlock an additional €6 billion in private investment. The project should be completed by 2024 (with differing timelines for each sub-project).
Commissioner Margrethe Vestager, in charge of competition policy, said: “Microelectronics can be found in almost all electronic devices we use every day – be it your phone, computer, washing machine, or your car. Innovation in microelectronics can help the whole of Europe leap ahead in innovation. That’s why it makes sense for European governments to come together to support such important projects of common European interest, if the market alone would not take the risk. And it is why we have put special State aid rules in place to smooth the way. They enable risky and groundbreaking research and innovation to see the light of day, whilst ensuring that its benefits are shared widely and do not distort the level playing field in Europe. So that innovation supported by taxpayer money truly serves European citizens.”
Commissioner Mariya Gabriel, in charge of Digital Economy and Society said: “Every connected
...THIS ARTICLE IS NOT AVAILABLE FOR IP ADDRESS 216.73.216.249
Please verify email or join us
to access premium content!
