Economics Minister Robert Habeck spoke of the “biggest energy crisis” in Germany. The reason is the politically desired and economically created dependency on Russian gas, said Habeck after visiting the Bad Lauchstädt energy park in Saxony-Anhalt.
“We will free ourselves from this dependency in no time at all.” Russia had recently further throttled deliveries through the Nord Stream 1 gas pipeline. Habeck said it took decades to bring Germany into this dependency. “Within months and a few years, we ensure that we overcome this dependency.” There is great dynamics in the demand for hydrogen, in research on hydrogen and the expansion of renewable energies for hydrogen production. “That’s the future.” First of all, however, this and the coming winter would have to be survived.
Habeck once again called on citizens and companies to join forces. “We can all make a contribution and we all make a contribution, unless we turn a blind eye and ears,” said the minister when asked when he would have to draw the emergency level in the gas emergency plan with gas rationing.
“People want to help, Germany helps – itself and the companies. And efforts have also been made in Europe to take joint steps.” If gas consumption were brought down and energy saved, more freedom would be created to avoid “uncomfortable steps”, according to Habeck. “And we’re also saving money, each and every one of us.” Russia had further throttled supplies through the Nord Stream 1 gas pipeline.
“Prevent any mess from happening”
In order to help gas importers financially, sharply increased prices for the procurement of replacement gas will be passed on to all gas customers in the form of a levy from autumn. Habeck said the surcharge is possible for all companies that have to replace Russian gas volumes. “Of course, that will then have to be proven and it will also be recalculated. So we will prevent any messy things from happening”. The levy is a relief signal for companies. Habeck said he expected the pay-as-you-go mechanism to calm the market and stabilize businesses.
The Federal Minister of Economics is taking a two-day trip to Saxony-Anhalt, Bavaria and Thuringia until Friday. Visits to companies are on the agenda. On Thursday evening, the minister wants to answer questions from citizens during a public discussion in Bayreuth.
