In a discussion concerning further relief measures, Katharina Dröge, the head of the Green Party faction, proposed an energy crisis payment. Speaking to RTL and ntv, she stated that the Greens suggest a payment of 100 euros per person, which would be taxed so that lower incomes benefit more proportionally than higher incomes. She argued this measure would be much fairer than the current, meaningless fuel discount, which she believes will largely end up benefiting oil corporations.
Furthermore, citing the potential scarcity of kerosene, Dröge advised people to forgo domestic flights. She believes that the Deutsche Bahn (German railway) is a much superior alternative to flying within Germany, and suggested that everyone who is able should avoid flying domestically.
The federal government has criticized Dröge for calling for greater efforts in energy conservation. She expressed her disbelief at a federal government that acts as if it shouldn’t be discussing energy savings. She pointed out that the Economy Minister is hesitant about the kerosene supply, sometimes stating it might be tight, and at other times, suggesting it might not be, but she does not want to issue calls for energy conservation for either motorists or the aviation sector.
The Green politician also proposed implementing an additional levy on private flights because they consume an excessive amount of CO2. Dröge stated that it is entirely unnecessary for someone to fly in a private plane at this time, and this would be the first step toward saving kerosene. Additionally, she argued that the federal government currently needs an energy-saving plan, noting that while the European Commission is working on one, the federal government has not even dared to discuss the issue itself.
