German Energy Minister Katherina Reiche Faces Backlash Over EEG Reform

Federal Economy and Energy Minister Katherina Reiche (CDU) has presented a draft revision of Germany's Renewable Energy Act (EEG). The proposal would sharply limit subsidies for small solar installations and introduce a "Redispatch" reserve that could reduce compensation for wind and solar operators in certain areas. Critics from the Green Party, industry associations and opposition parties warn the changes could jeopardise up to 10,000 jobs and stall the country's renewable energy expansion.

Green energy spokesperson Michael Kellner said, "Man hat im Gesetzentwurf nur ein wenig an den Symptomen herumgeschraubt, das Grundproblem bleibt bestehen." The draft also shifts emphasis to larger wind and solar projects while reducing support for rooftop and small‑scale photovoltaics. In parallel, the minister announced she will undergo a medical operation during the parliamentary summer recess and will not take any political outings until September.

The controversy reflects broader tensions over Germany's goal of sourcing 80 % of its electricity from renewables by 2030, with the new EEG proposal seen as a potential setback for the energy transition.