Federal Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil (SPD) issued a warning about a lack of kerosene, calling for measures to secure the supply. In doing so, he criticized his cabinet colleague, Katherina Reiche (CDU), for appearing unconcerned about shortages so far. Speaking to “Der Spiegel” he stated that “We must take the warnings about kerosene shortages very seriously”. He emphasized that the focus should not only be on price issues but also on supply security at all times.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has already predicted a kerosene shortage for Europe in the coming month. Finance Minister Klingbeil is worried about prolonged consequences stemming from the war in Iran. While on his way back from Washington, where he attended the spring meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, he told “Der Spiegel” that, “We are in a situation that is as challenging as the energy crisis following the Russian invasion of Ukraine”. He added that the discussions had reinforced his view that the current crisis is “bigger and more persistent than many believe”.
The concern that the crisis could linger is also affecting the relief programs already enacted by the federal government. The fuel discount, such as the 17-cent per liter gasoline rebate, was only planned for two months. However, Klingbeil anticipates a discussion regarding an extension of this discount, stating, “We will continue to monitor developments very closely in this crisis”. Furthermore, Klingbeil linked his warnings about a significantly worse economic situation to a call for action from the coalition partner. The finance minister asserted, “I want us to introduce a large and, above all, fair reform package. We must make the country more resilient and less dependent on fossil fuel imports”.
The conflict in Iran highlights that this is a central national question. Consequently, he urged the acceleration of renewable energy expansion and increased pace in grid development. Here too, he held his colleague Reiche accountable. Klingbeil expressed dissatisfaction with several draft energy laws presented by the Ministry of the CDU’s woman, fearing that these regulations might impede the installation of wind and solar power plants.
