Regulierung: Klaus Müller soll Bundesnetzagentur auch künftig führen

Klaus Müller, President of the Bundesnetzagentur, will continue to lead the agency for another five years, according to a revelation from Bundestag member Mark Helfrich (CDU), who also chairs the agency's advisory board. This decision ends weeks of speculation. Müller's reappointment is set to be discussed at the Beirat meeting on November 23, with invitations expected to be sent on Monday, Helfrich said.

The Beirat comprises Bundestag members and representatives from state governments. The vote of the members is formally a proposal to the federal government, which is expected to approve it, according to Helfrich. State ministries for Economy, Transport, and Digital Affairs have expressed support for Müller's second term. Müller's tenure ends at the end of February 2027.

Müller, a member of the Greens, took office in March 2022 under Federal Economy Minister Robert Habeck (Green). There were reservations within the Union faction regarding another term for Müller, with Union Fraktion Vice Sepp Müller (CDU) criticizing the power of the agency head. However, Helfrich managed to persuade the government factions, stating that there is broad agreement for a second term.

Helfrich emphasized his good working relationship with Müller, noting his technical competence and effective work. The Bundesnetzagentur plays a key role in energy transition, telecommunications market, postal services, and rail infrastructure. The agency gained more power following a 2021 European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruling obligating EU member states to grant regulatory authorities complete independence.

The agency can set and enforce regulations through so-called determinations. The Green Deal and reforms initiated by Müller, such as net charging fees, are under its authority. It remains unclear if Müller's vice president, Barbie Kornelia Haller (FDP), will remain in office for another five years. Haller has been Vice President since June 2022, with her term ending by May 2027.