Germany's economy ministry has expressed its support for an equitable distribution of network costs associated with the expansion of renewable energies across the country's federal states. This statement comes in the midst of a growing dispute between northern and southern states, where residents of northern states have voiced concerns about higher electricity prices despite cheaper wind power production in their region.
The disparity in prices arises from the connection costs for wind turbines to the power grid, which are passed on to residents in the regions where the turbines are located. The northern states, with a lower population, experience higher prices as the costs are spread among fewer consumers. This price differential has led to reduced local support for the construction of new wind turbines.
The spokesperson for the economy ministry emphasized the importance of collaboration among federal states to ensure a fair distribution of costs. While the ministry did not provide specific details about how electricity prices would be adjusted, Germany's network agency is expected to take on the responsibility of redistributing costs more fairly once a draft bill passes the lower house of parliament. The agency's head, Klaus Mueller, highlighted the need to reward renewable energy expansion while acknowledging the frustration felt by citizens and regions due to the current pricing structure.
As Germany continues its efforts to transition to renewable energy sources, the issue of fair cost allocation is crucial to maintaining public support for sustainable energy projects.
Source: reuters.com