Before the federal government debates potential relief measures due to high fuel prices, economist Monika Schnitzer warned against price interventions, instead calling for the introduction of a climate dividend. She stated that an overly broad distribution of aid would be inappropriate, asserting that the current situation is a recurring crisis that most people can manage with elevated fuel costs. According to her, the cost increases only pose an existential threat to a very small segment of the population. Schnitzer argued that the policy mentality of the state perpetually covering for everyone must change, emphasizing that aid should only be directed to those who genuinely need it.
She criticized the current proposed relief measures, particularly interventions in pricing, because people are already advised to drive less or at least drive more slowly, given the scarcity of oil and the necessity of reducing consumption. However, Schnitzer believes the time is now to implement the climate dividend, a concept long debated in politics. She suggested reinstating a climate dividend that simultaneously returns the revenue generated from the CO2 levy to the citizens, noting that the technical prerequisites for this are now in place. Such an unconditional payout would provide equivalent funds to everyone, which she argued would specifically assist the less fortunate. Additionally, she considers it useful to lower the electricity tax for all at this time, suggesting the government cut measures that have little impact on growth.
Furthermore, Schnitzer called for using the oil crisis as an opportunity to increase independence from fossil fuels. She pointed out that the proximity to crises in the Middle East is predictable, as these events repeatedly impact energy supplies. She argued that the current vulnerability could be mitigated if expansion efforts in renewable energy and electric mobility were more robust. She noted that owning an electric car currently provides a distinct advantage.
Overall, the economist forecasts negative consequences for the German economy, even with a temporary truce between Iran and the US. She predicted that achieving normal conditions and functional supply chains will take time, even if hostilities cease quickly. She emphasized the critical need to clear and secure the Strait of Hormuz and noted damage to production facilities. Current estimates suggest that the shipping traffic will not normalize for four months, leading to noticeable setbacks in economic growth.