Cash-strapped universities seek help with electricity bills

Local authorities have rejected an appeal by the Education Ministry to lower municipal rates for universities, which are facing serious financial difficulties due to the reduction in the funding they receive from the state.

The Central Union of Municipalities and Communities (KEDE) turned down the suggestion it should accept half the amount it usually charges. KEDE decided municipalities should be free to negotiate individual agreements with local universities as long as the reduction is no more than 20 percent.

The Public Power Corporation (PPC) recently reached a deal with universities to reduce their electricity bills by 20 percent and allow payment in 36 installments.