Energiepolitik: Reiche geht mittelfristig von sinkenden Strompreisen aus

CDU Ministerin Katherina Reiche predicts lower electricity prices in Germany over the medium term, with meaningful relief expected in the 2030s. She dismissed criticism that her reform plans would hinder the energy transition, stating that the transition will only be successful if climate protection, supply security, affordability for citizens, business competitiveness and responsible use of tax funds are balanced.

The Federation of German Enterprises criticized the delay in electricity price relief, demanding faster reductions. The government needs to lower the electricity tax for all. The cabinet launched a reform of the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG) and a network package. Reiche said the energy transition should become more cost-efficient as rising energy prices burden the German economy.

The government currently spends 17 billion euros annually on EEG support, which is increasing. Without reforms, the burden on the federal budget would continue to rise. The EEG must be revised, with a focus on market mechanisms and fewer long-term subsidies. The new EEG aims for more market competition and less permanent support.

New solar installations under 25 kilowatts, mainly small roof photovoltaic systems, will not receive long-term subsidies from 2027. The network package aims to make the energy transition more affordable and competitive by reducing network expansion costs. Reiche emphasized that the old EEG subsidies will continue to apply, but the network will often not be fully utilized.

The minister noted that the network's expansion cost is a significant driver of electricity prices. By shifting wind and solar energy development to areas with existing network capacity, unnecessary network expansion can be avoided, costs reduced, and the system made more efficient. While medium-term price reductions are expected, they will not occur in the short term.

The old EEG subsidies will still be in place, but the network will often not be fully utilized. The minister highlighted that the network's expansion cost is a significant driver of electricity prices. By shifting wind and solar energy development to areas with existing network capacity, unnecessary network expansion can be avoided, costs reduced, and the system made more efficient.