Electricity price zones: IHK warns of dangers for regional companies!

Electricity price zones: IHK warns of dangers for regional companies!

Deutschland - The discussion about the introduction of regional electricity price zones in Germany is currently heating the minds. The expansion of renewable energies is central to the energy transition in Germany, but the necessary network expansion has been stuck for years. According to Schwäbische Post South, to violent debates. The Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) Ostwürttemberg and the ENBW ODR energy supplier warn of the negative consequences of this measure for the regional economy.

A uniform electricity price in wholesale applies in Germany, regardless of the region. This could change if the EU Commission implements the recommendations of European network operators that propose a division of the German-Luxemburg electricity price zone into smaller price segments. Lower Saxony produces more electricity than it consumes, while in Baden-Württemberg there is a higher demand than production. This leads to considerable imbalances in the electricity market, which may not be remedied by splitting up the price zone.

consequences for the economy

A report that was presented on April 28 gives both advantages and disadvantages of such a division. Although a reduction in the annual electricity costs of the system by up to 339 million euros is promised by increasing the competition, Achim Dercks, deputy general manager of the DIHK, warns that a division of the electricity price zone could heavily burden the economic situation in Germany. Particularly energy -intensive industries could be weakened in international competition because they already suffer from high electricity prices.

Proponents argue that smaller markets could promote competition and efficiency. An example of successful implementation is the electricity price zones in Sweden, where the system has existed since 2011. Nevertheless, there are numerous critics who warn of the disadvantages. These include potentially higher costs for industry in the south, new levies and an increased bureaucracy.

key points for discussion

• The IHK Ostwürttemberg fears a risk to investments and weakening competitiveness.
• The IHK calls for stable and predictable framework conditions for the energy transition.
• Germany's transmission system operator also criticize the methodology of the European Energy Agency Acer, which is considered inadequate.
• The Federal Government plans to hold on to a uniform power bid zone, despite the pressure from Brussels.

The planned division of the electricity price zone also has a major impact on society. Agora energy transition researchers are convinced that electricity prices in the north could decrease. However, consumers in the southern regions could be confronted with higher prices, which could result in a possible migration of companies.

The EU member states have to agree on the future of the electricity market. If no common decision is made, the Commission plans to make a final decision by spring 2026. The uncertainties and perspectives in relation to the new electricity price zones therefore remain exciting and challenging for all affected parties. Further information about the views of the various actors and the discussion about the electricity price zones can be found on DIHK and Tagesschau .