energy crisis
Habeck announces larger protective screen for companies
Federal Minister of Economics Robert Habeck (Greens) at a press conference in Berlin. photo
© Bernd von Jutrczenka/dpa
The aim is to provide effective support for small and medium-sized companies, says the Federal Minister for Economic Affairs. In view of further rising prices, critics criticize the strategy of the Green politician.
Federal Minister of Economics Robert Habeck has promised companies more support in view of the energy crisis. “There is a risk of operational closures, and we have to counter that. That’s why we will expand the aid programs,” said the Vice Chancellor to the editorial network Germany (RND) according to the advance notice.
There is a protective shield under which small and medium-sized companies can slip, said the Green politician. “But one thing is clear: for autumn and winter we have to open up the protective shield more.” We are working at full speed so that companies can be supported in a targeted and effective manner. A spokeswoman for Habeck had already said on Wednesday that impending operational closures due to energy costs were a serious problem, especially for small and medium-sized companies.
Meanwhile, the Association of German Chambers of Commerce and Industry complained that prices had reached a level that threatened the existence of many companies. “More and more companies are telling us that they no longer have a supply contract for electricity or gas. The tap is literally turned off,” DIHK President Peter Adrian told RND. “But without energy, no economy can run.”