Brinkhaus urges bold steps to slash fossil fuel imports and reform climate policy
"It really is a problem that we haven't managed to make use of this channel so far," Ralph Brinkhaus told Tagesspiegel Background (Tuesday edition). "In emergencies, we need this direct payment system to provide targeted support—not just scattering aid indiscriminately—in times of crisis."
He also expressed regret that there was no per-capita climate bonus, acknowledging that while it would benefit everyone, it was ultimately a question of fairness. "We owe it to citizens to at least partially offset the extra financial burden caused by the higher CO₂ price," Brinkhaus said.
Addressing the current energy price situation, he argued that too few lessons had been learned from the past energy crisis following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. "When a crisis erupts in one part of the world, the impact on us is far too severe. That's why it's crucial that we reduce our dependence on oil and gas imports," he stressed.
In response to criticism that Economics Minister Katharina Reiche (CDU) was pursuing policies favoring fossil fuels with her energy legislation, Brinkhaus said: "While Katharina Reiche does many things well, it would be easier if the topics of renewables and energy efficiency were framed in a more positive light."
Brinkhaus rejected calls—including from some within the CDU/CSU—to scale back emissions trading in the current situation. "ETS-2 for buildings and transport must stay in place. The debate right now is heading in the wrong direction." He emphasized that businesses had already made investments based on both emissions trading systems—ETS-1 for industry and ETS-2 for buildings and transport—and now needed planning certainty.
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