The Greens have accused Federal Minister of Economics Katherina Reiche (CDU) of inaction over Germany’s low gas‑storage levels. “The situation is worsening as the cold weather sets in” said Michel Kellner, the Greens’ energy‑policy spokesperson in the Bundestag, in an interview with the “Rheinische Post” (Wednesday issue). He added that in the Baltic Sea ice prevents unloading, and Bavarian storage tanks are so empty that supplies must come from Austria. “Without the good preparedness of our neighbours the situation would be tight” Kellner said.
Reiche has allegedly ignored the Greens’ warnings since August, and today she must explain what measures she will take for the coming heating season. “A normal winter should not produce such risks” Kellner cautioned.
Reiche is scheduled to respond to the Parliamentary Committee on Economy in a closed video conference on Tuesday at 17:30. The head of the Federal Network Agency, Klaus Müller, will also be allowed to attend upon Reiche’s request.