Industry calls for state aid because of high energy costs

Dusseldorf The dramatic increase in energy prices as a result of the conflict with Russia is fueling existential fears in small and medium-sized businesses and industry. Many companies from energy-intensive industries such as metal processing, glass production or the textile industry fear for their business model in view of the high costs of electricity, gas and oil – and are now calling on politicians for financial support.

“The energy prices are no longer sustainable, we can no longer produce economically,” complains Carletta Heinz, owner of the family-run glass manufacturer Heinz-Glas.

Even before the Russian attack on Ukraine, the company, like many others, had asked the German government for support. Now the situation is getting more and more dramatic. Even crisis-tested traditional companies like the textile manufacturer Trigema are now sounding the alarm. If the current energy price level lasts longer, says the sole managing director and owner Wolfgang Grupp. “Then I certainly don’t have a chance.”