NMa fines Continuon for failing to cooperate

The Netherlands Competition Authority (NMa) has imposed a fine of EUR 69,000 on N.V. Continuon Netbeheer for submitting inaccurate data.

For the purposes of enforcement, the NMa is authorised under the Electricity Act 1998 to request information from network operators. In relation to a dispute brought before the competition authority, Continuon was asked to submit information on the materials employed for supplying energy to a particular consumer. The request for information arose from this dispute. The consumer contended that the materials used fell short of legal requirements. As proceedings failed to establish clarity as to compliance with statutory provisions regarding these materials, the NMa instigated an on-the-spot investigation. It appeared from this investigation that the information submitted was indeed inaccurate. The information concerned proved of essential value to the NMa in assessing the dispute at hand.