How to reduce gas consumption and escape dependence on Russian energy supplies? This concern drives the government in Berlin. Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s coalition plans to suspend the shutdown of coal-fired power plants. As a result of a coalition committee meeting, the SPD, Greens and FDP announced that these should be kept on standby for longer in order to reduce gas consumption in the short term. Irrespective of this, they are sticking to the goal of “ideally phasing out coal by 2030”.
In view of the massive increase in energy costs, the coalition committee also agreed to relieve the burden on citizens. These are to receive a one-off energy price allowance of 300 euros as a salary subsidy. For the self-employed there is an advance payment in the form of a one-off reduction in their income tax prepayment. The coalition also agreed to lower the energy tax on fuel for three months. Recipients of social benefits receive another one-time payment because of the high energy prices. In addition to the 100 euros that have already been decided, a further 100 euros are to be paid out per person.
The coalition also wants to introduce a ticket for nine euros per month for 90 days for local public transport. The federal states receive the appropriate funds for this. Families receive a one-time bonus of 100 euros per child. The bonus is offset against the child allowance.
Source: Nachrichten
