State aid: the legal framework

The legal framework for the state aid rules is contained in the main part of EEA Agreement, and is very similar to the provisions in the EC Treaty.

In addition, annexes and protocols to the EEA Agreement contain further rules and contain provisions establishing the functions of the Authority. Those rules contain:

• further information on the definition of state aid and what forms of aid can be allowed
• the general framework for the implementation and enforcement of the state aid rules, including the investigative powers of the Authority
• the procedures to be followed in state aid cases

The Authority has also adopted various guidelines, which are intended to explain in more detail how the Authority will interpret the state aid rules (primarily clarifying when aid can be considered compatible with the EEA Agreement) or provide more detail on the procedures that must be followed. The guidelines broadly reflect the position in the EU.