Left Party slams CO₂ price freeze as climate policy betrayal

A €55–€65 CO₂ price cap in 2027? Critics say it's a gift to polluters—not the climate. Why this move could deepen Germany's green policy divide.

, and Administrator

2026 May 14 . 8:03 AM

1 min read

The image shows a graph depicting the number of CO2 emissions in Germany. The graph is accompanied... — The image shows a graph depicting the number of CO2 emissions in Germany. The graph is accompanied by text that provides further information about the data.

Left Party slams CO₂ price freeze as climate policy betrayal

The Left Party has criticised the government’s decision to freeze the CO₂ price between €55 and €65 per ton in 2027. Fabian Fahl, the party’s climate policy spokesperson, called the move a sign of the government’s failing commitment to climate action and financial fairness. Fahl argued that the freeze would cut revenue for climate protection projects funded by the Climate and Transformation Fund (KTF). He claimed the CO₂ price only makes sense if paired with a climate dividend—something the government recently rejected.

The Left Party had proposed a €320-per-person climate dividend, but the coalition dismissed it as unaffordable. Fahl pointed out that the same government found money for a fuel discount, which largely benefits fossil fuel companies. During a coalition meeting, Fahl’s concerns were reinforced. He described the government as indifferent to both climate protection and the financial struggles of ordinary people. To ease the burden, he suggested an additional €150 energy crisis relief payment, though no decision was made on this proposal.

The freeze on CO₂ pricing will reduce funding for climate initiatives while maintaining subsidies for fossil fuels. Fahl’s criticism highlights a gap between the government’s spending choices and its stated climate goals. The Left Party continues to push for direct financial relief for citizens instead.