Saarland’s Minister President Anke Rehlinger has issued a stark warning to the federal government, urging a significantly accelerated implementation of planned economic relief measures for German businesses. In an interview with the “Rheinische Post”, Rehlinger underscored the severity of the current economic climate, characterizing it as a crisis demanding urgent and decisive action.
Ahead of a crucial coalition summit, Rehlinger criticized the slow pace of progress, emphasizing that the tools needed for recovery already exist, enshrined in coalition agreements and commitments made at industry-specific summits regarding automotive and steel sectors. The Minister President’s remarks suggest growing frustration amongst regional leaders regarding the federal government’s ability to translate policy into tangible support for businesses.
The upcoming coalition talks are expected to feature intense debate surrounding the proposed industrial electricity price and the broader power plant strategy. Rehlinger specifically highlighted the precarious state of the industrial electricity price, warning that without a combined approach – integrating it with existing compensation mechanisms for industries like steel – it risks becoming functionally useless due to potential Brussels roadblocks. This raises critical questions about the federal government’s negotiating strength and coordination with European regulators.
Rehlinger’s call for “planable, competitive energy prices” reflects a widespread demand from both state governments and industry. The lack of clarity surrounding the power plant strategy, particularly the promised tender for additional gas-fired power plants, is heightening uncertainty and hindering investment decisions. Her statement carries a pointed message to Federal Minister for Economic Affairs, Katarina Reiche, emphasizing the need for demonstrable “forcefulness” in representing German interests within the European Union and driving the necessary reforms to improve the country’s economic situation. It’s clear that regional leaders are increasingly eager for decisive action and a tangible demonstration of the federal government’s commitment to economic competitiveness.
