Lower Saxony Minister welcomes planned fuel price relief

Lower Saxony Economic Minister Grant Hendrik Tonne has expressed support for a planned package of measures intended to provide relief for fuel prices. The agreement reached between the federal and state governments includes a temporary fuel price cap and a reduction in energy tax on fuels.

Tonne noted that these measures could provide rapid relief for commuters, drivers, and businesses. However, he criticized the timeline for the fuel price cap, which is not expected to take effect until January 1, 2027, suggesting that the federal government should have begun preparations sooner.

Additionally, the minister called for the potential absorption of excess profits from mineral oil companies to ensure that the costs of the crisis are not funded solely by taxpayers. He also voiced criticism regarding the current 12:00 PM rule for daily fuel price adjustments, suggesting that price updates would be better suited for the evening.