German Minister Calls for End to Blocking of Aid for Solar Industry
March 10, 2024, 16:17
The domestic solar industry in Germany is facing significant pressure, and the Minister of Energy for the state of Saxony, Wolfram Günther, is calling for an end to the blocking of aid. Günther expressed concern that an agreement on the Solar Pact should not be delayed by the Free Democratic Party (FDP).
Blockade Threatens Survival of Domestic Solar Industry
“China is launching massive dumping attacks against the European solar industry,” said Wolfram Günther, a Green Party politician, on Sunday. European solar industry manufacturers, particularly those in Saxony, are fighting for their survival due to a highly distorted market. The Federal Ministry of Economics has proposed practical and excellent suggestions for a resilience bonus, along with an expression of interest procedure for investment promotion. This would help restore fair conditions for competition, save the domestic solar industry, and preserve its technological expertise. It is crucial to reach an agreement in the parliamentary process on the Solar Package and ensure it is not delayed by the FDP, which amounts to a blockade and is strategically irresponsible. Günther emphasized the importance of European energy sovereignty and suggested redirecting funds towards local value creation instead of continuously sending money to China.
Threats to German Solar Manufacturers
German solar module manufacturers have faced pressure from cheap imports from China. Swiss company Meyer Burger has even threatened to close its factory in Freiberg, Saxony, if immediate measures are not taken to ensure fair competition conditions for the industry.
By supporting the domestic solar industry, Germany can enhance its energy independence and promote local economic growth. The resilience bonus proposed by the Federal Ministry of Economics offers a viable solution to the challenges faced by the industry.
(Source: dpa)
