Sepp Müller, the co-chair of the parliamentary fuel price task force from the CDU, is calling for Americans to practice fuel conservation. Speaking to the TV station “Welt” on Thursday, Müller noted that Europe is currently experiencing initial fuel supply problems, exemplified by Italian airports no longer being able to fully fuel every aircraft.
According to Müller, German motorists should help conserve refinery capacities for kerosene by driving more efficiently. He stressed the current market limitation: “We must first realize that we have fewer options in the market. That is why it is highly beneficial for everyone if we consume less fuel”. He advised those who can afford to drive less to save both gasoline and diesel, stating that this action in turn “makes it possible for us to produce more kerosene in the refinery process”. Simultaneously, the goal is to identify ways to boost kerosene production within Germany’s own refineries.
Müller cautioned against relying solely on outside help, asserting that “you cannot subsidize every problem of this world with taxpayer money from Germany”. He emphasized the critical need for public understanding: “Above all, we cannot magically summon a missing supply. It is up to us to understand that we must consume less gasoline and less diesel”. He concluded that the market will ultimately adjust through higher prices. While Germany will continue to be supplied, other areas of the world may face future shortages of kerosene.
Beyond the fuel issue, a shortage of Helium, a gas vital for cooling in chip manufacturing, poses a greater risk. This decline is viewed as a more significant, ongoing problem. Müller warned that the situation concerning Helium is far more severe, particularly because this noble gas is used in chip factories and the medical industry. He stated that within the next six weeks, the first chip factories could cease production if the Strait of Hormuz remains blocked-a disruption that would cause far greater problems than the current issues at gas stations.
To resolve potential supply gaps, Müller advocated boosting domestic production. He suggested that Fracking for gas and Helium in Germany could be a viable option. He challenged the public: “Are we ready for Fracking? Are we ready to exploit Helium in Germany? Are we ready to utilize our own raw materials? This discussion has been answered differently in previous years compared to this crisis situation”. Müller expressed satisfaction that the population is beginning to show a willingness to become independent and realize the necessity of utilizing domestic resources. Furthermore, he stated that expanding renewable energy sources in the long term remains indispensable.