Germany economy ministry has expressed its support for equitably distributing the network costs associated with the expansion of renewable energies among the country’s federal states, as stated by a ministry spokesperson on Sunday.
A recent intensification of a dispute between northern and southern states has occurred, with residents in the northern states expressing concerns about elevated electricity prices in their region despite the cheaper wind power production prevailing there.
The northern regions have experienced relatively higher prices due to the transmission costs associated with linking wind turbines to the power grid, which are subsequently passed on to the local residents. The price disparity arises from the lower population density in the north, leading to a scenario where these costs are borne by a smaller consumer base.
The leaders of the northern states highlighted how the price discrepancy was negatively impacting local enthusiasm for the construction of new wind turbines.
The spokesperson emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts among the federal states to ensure an equitable distribution, stating to Reuters, “It is important that they (the federal states) work together for a fair distribution.”
While not revealing specific details about potential electricity price adjustments, the Germany economy ministry , Germany’s network agency, stands ready to oversee a fairer redistribution of costs once the lower house of parliament approves a preliminary bill. Subsequently, the agency, under the guidance of its head Klaus Mueller, will present reform proposals.
Mueller expressed his perspective on the matter, noting, “It is obvious that we should reward the expansion of renewables. I can well understand the frustration of many citizens and regions.”