The opposition Left party has voiced criticism regarding a proposal by Federal Minister for Economic Affairs, Katarina Reiche (CDU), concerning the passing on of reduced grid fees to consumers. While acknowledging the government’s decision to partially absorb transmission grid fees, the Left argues the current approach lacks sufficient enforcement mechanisms.
“It is positive that the federal government is taking action on grid fees” stated Ines Schwerdtner, leader of the Left party. “However, without compelling measures, grid operators are unlikely to voluntarily pass on these savings to consumers”. Schwerdtner emphasized the need for Minister Reiche to implement binding guarantees ensuring real-world relief reaches households.
Beyond the immediate issue of grid fee reductions, the Left is advocating for a broader reevaluation of energy policy. Schwerdtner argued against government subsidies for private companies as a means of mitigating high costs, asserting that the root causes of these expenses need to be addressed directly. Specifically, the Left is proposing the transfer of grid expansion responsibility into public ownership.
“Leaving infrastructure expansion to private entities inherently drives up costs” Schwerdtner explained. “Unlike public entities, private companies require profit margins, ultimately burdening consumers”. She further called for the expansion of government stakes in transmission grid operators, with the long-term goal of returning network ownership to the public sector. The party is also reiterating its demand for a reduction in electricity taxes applicable to all consumers, rather than prioritizing industrial rates.
