Comment on fuel prices: Sustainable action is needed now
Fuel prices have risen sharply, and politicians are being called upon to act. It would be wise to finally think long-term. A commentary.
(Image: BMW)
Perhaps it should not surprise us all. Especially in a super election year in Germany with eight polls, there is always the danger that politically responsible persons will fall into hectic activity, especially since there is no shortage of external suggestions. In the debate about fuel prices, which have offered considerable potential for excitement for decades, candidates in the run-up to an election can make many mistakes. It is important to proceed with a sense of proportion.
A liter of diesel cost 2.50 euros per liter on the A99 near the editorial office this week. Away from the autobahn, it was currently 2.16 euros nationwide, which only seems not entirely dramatic in direct comparison. Car drivers feel the consequences of the escalating conflict in the Middle East in their own wallets. It will only be of limited comfort to many that they are still on the comfortable side of a policy that could not preserve peace. No one would likely want to trade places with the conditions on the ground.
High fuel prices should not be ignored by any of us
Those who are dependent on the car and cannot simply switch to a more economical model or an e-car in the short term are in a bind. The arrogance of a few, who have afforded themselves the combination of a PV system and an e-car and are now mocking those who had no chance to do so, will be met with indignation. Socially, it should not be a matter of indifference to all of us that people with low incomes are suffering from the current development. Because individual, motorized mobility with simultaneous self-sufficiency in driving energy is a fine thing, but one must first be able to afford it.
Most people already know the common tips for saving fuel. Tires should have slightly increased air pressure, unnecessary items should not be carried along, and short distances should be avoided. Usually, something can still be gained through a different driving style – more for some, less for others. Those who heed all this might be surprised by their own car.
Political countermeasures
Federal Minister of Economics Katherina Reiche (CDU) wants to adopt the Austrian idea that fuel prices can only be raised once a day. Experts are divided on whether this will lead to lower prices in the long term. Specifically, the federal government has decided to release part of the strategic oil reserves to take pressure off the market – an idea that naturally has an end, meaning it will have at best a short-term effect.
Experts advise against a fuel discount. According to Claudia Kemfert, head of the Energy, Transport and Environment department at the German Institute for Economic Research, it will largely end up in the pockets of the oil companies anyway. She advocates for a climate and energy bonus to relieve people with low incomes. Above all, however, the state must strengthen alternatives to the car, for example, through a subsidized Germany ticket.
In the medium term, everyone should realize again that the use of fossil fuels will become expensive in the long run – in all areas of life. The current world situation makes it abundantly clear how quickly some supply chains can falter. We can produce electricity ourselves; Germany is largely dependent on imports for oil and gas. Therefore, when buying your next car, do not mentally rule out the battery-electric model immediately.
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