Rising Prices: NRW Minister Calls for Reduction in Power Tax - Germany's Transport Minister Calls for EU-Minimum Electricity Tax Amid Soaring Oil Prices
Transport Minister Oliver Krischer has proposed cutting Germany's electricity tax to the EU minimum for all consumers. The move aims to encourage a shift towards electric cars and renewable energy. His call comes as oil prices surge amid rising tensions in the Middle East.
Krischer criticised the coalition government for reducing the electricity tax only for industry, not for households and smaller businesses. He pointed out that Chancellor Friedrich Merz had promised lower electricity taxes during his campaign.
The minister also rejected calls for a new fuel discount, arguing that past schemes had mainly benefited oil producers rather than consumers. Instead, he urged the government to use Germany's national oil reserves strategically to stabilise oil prices near me and secure supply.
With oil prices climbing sharply since the start of the Iran conflict, Krischer warned of further market instability. Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has nearly halted, causing a rebound in oil prices that disrupted stock market recovery in Vienna.
Krischer stressed that long-term energy security depends on reducing reliance on oil-producing autocrats. He called for faster expansion of electromobility and renewable heating systems. Additionally, he pushed for stricter oversight by the competition authority to prevent excessive price markups on consumers.
The minister also accused the current government of slowing renewable energy growth and rolling back building modernisation programmes.
Krischer's proposal would align Germany's electricity tax with the lowest level allowed by the EU. If implemented, the change could lower costs for consumers and support the transition to cleaner energy. The government has yet to respond to his recommendations.
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