Suche
Mein Konto
Energy crisis in Germany: Northern and southern states in the electricity price dispute!
Northern German federal states are calling for the electricity price system in Germany to be split up to take regional differences into account.
Energy crisis in Germany: Northern and southern states in the electricity price dispute!
The issue of energy price zones is causing heated debates and different opinions between regions in Germany. In particular, some northern and eastern German federal states, including Bremen, are calling for the abolition of the uniform electricity price system. The reason for this demand is clear: While electricity from wind power is available at low prices in the north, regions that do not have their own green energy sources also benefit from the same exchange price. A division of the electricity bidding zone into different price zones is therefore being discussed. This reports engineer.
### Resistance in the South
On the other hand, there is strong resistance, particularly from Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg. These federal states are sticking to the uniform price structure out of fear of a possible migration of energy-intensive industries and the associated loss of jobs. However, the federal government remains steadfast and reaffirms its commitment to the uniform electricity bidding zone. A spokesman for the Federal Ministry of Economics refers to a coalition resolution that underlines the advantages of the current regulation. This leads to a constant area of tension between the interests of the different federal states.
While politicians debate, critics warn of an “energy price split” that could particularly disadvantage economically weaker regions. The differences in electricity production and consumption between the federal states play a major role in this discussion. Schleswig-Holstein, Lower Saxony and Brandenburg are net exporting countries that generate more electricity than they consume. In contrast, Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg rely on electricity imports.
### A look at the future
What is particularly noteworthy is that in 2023 Germany became a net electricity importer again for the first time since 2002. The share of renewable energies in electricity generation increased from 56% in 2023 to around 59% in 2024. In view of these developments, it remains unclear whether and when Germany will actually introduce several electricity price zones. The idea is also not new; Previous attempts always failed due to political resistance. Such price zones have long been common practice in other European countries, such as Sweden and Italy.
Finally, it should be noted that the issue of electricity price zones not only has an economic but also a social aspect. The pressure to make energy supply more equitable will continue to grow as politicians strive to find a balance between the different interests of the regions.