Sebastian Bolay Juni

Cut in the Grid Fee Subsidy Sends the Wrong Signal

In his statement, Sebastian Bolay, Head of Energy, Environment, Industry at the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK), addresses the draft law on transmission grid costs.

In its "Draft Law for a Subsidy to Transmission Grid Costs for the Years 2027 to 2029", the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy proposes a reduction in the subsidy for grid charges: from the current €6.5 billion to €5.525 billion. DIHK Head Sebastian Bolay comments as follows:

05.08.2026 – "The planned reduction in the grid fee subsidy sends the wrong signal for Germany as a business location. Once again, the broad spectrum of the economy is burdened – after most companies were already left out with the reduction in electricity tax. Instead of making electricity costs predictable for all businesses, necessary relief is being rolled back once again.

Right now, companies need reliable conditions to invest in the electrification of their processes, energy efficiency, and climate-neutral technologies. Grid fees now account for up to 30 percent of electricity costs, making them a key competitive factor. A 15 percent reduction in the subsidy from €6.5 billion to €5.525 billion increases electricity costs for companies and private consumers alike.

The coalition agreement promises to permanently cap grid fees. This goal must also be reflected in the federal budget. Anyone who wants to strengthen investment and growth in Germany must sustainably reduce electricity costs for the entire economy."

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Petra Blum

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