The Social Democratic Party’s (SPD) parliamentary group leader, Matthias Miersch, has delivered a pointed critique of Economics and Energy Minister Katherina Reiche (CDU), signaling growing internal tensions within Germany’s governing coalition. While acknowledging some positive impacts from previously implemented policies – specifically the abolition of the gas levy and reductions in grid fees – Miersch emphasized the urgency for further, more transformative action to address the country’s economic challenges.
Speaking to the “Rheinische Post”, Miersch highlighted the ongoing need for decisive intervention regarding electricity prices, particularly the industrial electricity rate and compensation measures for businesses. He argued that while the government has been in office for less than a year, the minister’s performance in her portfolio requires significant improvement. Echoing a sentiment of impatience, Miersch stated his expectation for Reiche to dramatically accelerate the implementation of coalition agreements, specifically citing the conspicuous absence of a comprehensive power plant strategy.
The criticism extended beyond policy implementation, with Miersch raising concerns that the minister’s focus appears disproportionately weighted towards areas outside her core economic and energy responsibilities, such as pension reform. This perceived divergence, he suggested, detracts from the pressing need for focused expertise in managing the nation’s energy transition and economic stability.
The recent widespread power outage in Berlin has also spurred Miersch to advocate for significantly enhanced protection of critical infrastructure. He underscored the vulnerability of essential facilities like power plants and energy grids, alongside critical data security, demanding swift parliamentary approval of the “Kritis-Dachgesetz” (Critical Infrastructure Protection Act). This legislation, he insists, is crucial to bolster the physical security of Germany’s vital infrastructure and to ensure its resilience against potential threats. The escalating criticisms from within the coalition suggest a potentially fraught period ahead, with the SPD pushing for more assertive action and potentially challenging the current ministerial leadership’s approach.