By The Federation of German Industries (BDI) sees the proposals put forward by the EU Commission on climate and energy policy as pointing basically in the right direction.
"Deciding on a binding and realistic climate goal is the sensible approach. It must be flanked by targets relating to the security of supply and competitiveness," stated Markus Kerber, Director General of the BDI, in Berlin on Monday.
Kerber argued that the competitiveness of the energy supply was increasingly falling behind when judged by international standards. In his view this could be attributed mainly to the rapidly rising special charges imposed by the state in many member countries. "Only a boost to competitiveness offers a realistic chance of bringing about a significant increase in industry's share of gross national product across the whole of Europe," said Kerber.
The BDI advocates effective trading in emissions. In order to expand the European emissions trading system into the cornerstone of climate policy, it must be further advanced in a judicious manner.
The completion of the single energy market is a decisive factor. It has fallen behind schedule. "According to the EU Commission, a totally integrated electricity market could permit annual savings of 35 billion euros," stressed Kerber.
Industry is dependent on global trends in the energy industry. The difference in energy costs between Germany and other national economies persists, especially with respect to the USA.
Kerber gave a positive assessment of the proposals by the EU Commission relating to the extraction of shale gas. "The recommendations are a confirmation of our view that this technology also deserves a chance in Europe."
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