REUTERS/Annegret Hilse/File PhotoBERLIN, Sept 22 (Reuters) - The German government has opened discussions about providing urgent support for scores of regional state-owned energy providers which are struggling to cope with soaring gas prices, three sources familiar with the matter said. A spokesperson for Germany's economy ministry said it was in contact with the country's regional states concerning the municipal authorities, but declined to elaborate. There is a growing sense of urgency to provide support as energy bills for German households and industry become increasingly unaffordable. Liebing, who has previously warned about insolvencies in the sector, said the talks involved measures needed to shield municipal utilities from "acute" difficulties. "Should municipal authorities be at risk of collapse, many other services such as water, bin collection and public transport could fall apart," he said.

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