Michael Lewis, CEO of Uniper, defended the fundamental direction of energy policy set by Economic Minister Katherina Reiche (CDU), telling the magazine Focus that the overall direction of the energy policies is correct. He stressed that the energy transition must achieve not only environmental friendliness but also efficiency and affordability.
Lewis criticized the previous development model, pointing out that renewable energy sources were too often implemented in regions suffering from grid congestion. He added that consumers are bearing the cost of these bottlenecks, noting that every wind turbine and solar panel does not contribute equally to the energy transition.
The energy CEO called for greater clarity regarding the long-term orientation of the country’s energy strategy. According to Lewis, a holistic strategy for the energy transition is necessary, requiring that electrical grids, power plants, renewable energy, and the hydrogen economy be planned and considered together. He acknowledged that Katherina Reiche’s monitoring report articulated this need and served as a necessary first step, but emphasized that further action is required.
