Rent cap for wind turbines: economics misunderstood

There should be a strict rent cap – for wind turbines. The idea for this comes from Federal Minister of Economics Katherina Reiche. This is a rigid limitation on the rental prices for areas on which wind turbines generate electricity, which is subject to high fines. But the Christian Democrats categorically reject anything like this when it comes to apartments. Because a price cap would supposedly ensure that hardly anyone would invest in the construction or renovation of buildings. This would make living space more scarce and not more affordable.

That's not true, but apparently Union people actually believe it. This shows what rich people and their party friends want to achieve with the lease cap for wind turbines, which is provided for in the amendment to the Renewable Energy Sources Act: slow down the further expansion of wind and large solar systems, unsettle operators, and deter investors. Whether this will be achieved is another matter, because price controls are not as dramatic as Christian Democrats think. However, there is much to suggest that Reich's rent cap for wind turbines could actually achieve this because of its restrictive and unclean design.

Reiche usually categorically rejects market interventions and considers price caps to be the work of the devil. It is significant that the guardian of pure market theory wants to make an exception when it comes to wind energy. It is at war with the energy transition, as initiated by the traffic lights. Your draft laws are full of regulations that harm renewables.

The taz is an independent, left-wing and opinionated daily newspaper. We have been arguing in our comments, essays and debate texts since the taz was founded in 1979. We often cannot and do not want to agree on an opinion. That's why you'll find some completely opposing positions here - all part of the very broad left-wing spectrum of opinions.

Every wind turbine and every solar system that is not built means that we are stuck with fossil fuels. This is not only catastrophic for the climate, but above all for the economy and consumers. Because the only way to get cheaper electricity is through renewables. An economics minister who ignores this is in the wrong place.