Hydroelectric concessions: The European Commission drops infringement proceedings against France concerning hydroelectric concessions (Hydroelectricity concessions)

*This article is an automatic translation of the original article, provided here for your convenience. Read the original article. – EC Comm, 27 November 2008, Press release IP/08/1793, France: elimination of the preference for the outgoing concession-holder in the case of hydroelectricity concessions The regime of hydroelectric concessions is set by the amended law of 16 October 1919 on the use of hydraulic energy. This law, which makes the exploitation of hydraulic power subject to a concession or authorization from the State depending on the power of the works, has long established a very favorable regime for the outgoing concessionaire. Hydropower concessions could be granted for an initial period of 75 years, renewable for 30 years unless the Administration indicated otherwise,