Dutch Competition Watchdog Fines Utility Company

The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) has imposed a fine of 150,000 euros on PZEM Energy B.V., a Dutch energy producer, supplier, and trader, because it had failed to comply with the obligation to publish inside information.

PZEM is the owner of several power plants, and thus knew, for example, when these plants had to be shut down. This information may affect prices that are formed on the wholesale energy market. ACM’s investigation revealed that PZEM had violated the rules regarding publication of inside information in a timely and correct manner. PZEM thus had an edge over other market participants in terms of knowledge. PZEM has stated that it has since implemented changes to its organization in order to improve compliance.

Manon Leijten, Member of the Board of ACM, explains: “To ensure that the European energy market functions well, it is important that all companies have all of the relevant information at the same time. Knowledge about interrupting or adding production capacity is important information, which may affect prices formed on the energy wholesale market. That’s why market participants are required to publish this type of information quickly and correctly. As ACM’s investigation has revealed that PZEM did not always do so properly, ACM has decided to impose a fine of 150,000 euros on PZEM.”

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