Tank fillings of more than 100 euros, monthly prescriptions for electricity and gas that come across as dangerous threats, and dramatic follow-up costs for companies and their products: We are also feeling the consequences of the war in Ukraine through the energy cost situation in Austria. The state, on the other hand, benefits from the price increases because it earns money through VAT and other taxes.
At yesterday’s energy summit chaired by Federal Chancellor Karl Nehammer with economists and representatives of the energy industry, it was therefore explored how the state could relieve the burden on the population again. Economic researcher Gabriel Felbermayr analyzed which measures would have which consequences. In a “very constructive atmosphere” Felbermayr also repeated what he had said in a conversation with the OÖ Nachrichten last week. These are the basics that are now also being examined in the responsible ministries and should result in concrete measures.
- ZIB 1: “Energy summit” to curb inflation
stay green
Finance Minister Magnus Brunner announced the direction in which things will go over the weekend. There could be a reduction in energy taxes such as gas and electricity. On the other hand, Brunner rejects untying the package for eco-social tax reform, which provides for a pricing of CO2 emissions. Like the Wifo, he points out that the pricing is also related to an eco-bonus, which even leads to relief at the beginning. Brunner is also against a general tax cut, such as a general reduction in VAT on fuel, as has been demanded several times. “That would primarily relieve the burden on higher earners,” says Brunner. On the other hand, a temporary reduction in wage and income tax as well as social security contributions is conceivable. It is also about avoiding a wage-price spiral.
- ZIB 1: According to Finance Minister Brunner (ÖVP), energy taxes on natural gas and electricity are to be reduced.
The topic at yesterday’s work meeting was not only relief, but also the stockpiling of energy and the path to greater independence from Russian gas. Natural gas continues to flow from Russia to Western Europe. So much that even the saves are slowly growing again. LPG terminals will not be installed overnight. And it will certainly be more expensive than the gas that is currently being delivered through the pipelines from Russia.
Nehammer says that in the coming days a decision will be made at the political level “what measures we can take to cushion inflation”. (dm)
Source: Nachrichten
