Reform and harmonisation of business exemptions in the energy sector

In the energy sector, companies benefit from numerous exemptions - such as energy and electricity tax, grid fees, the EEG levy or emissions trading. However, the current regulations are unsystematic and in some cases also favour companies that are not in international competition. This weakens incentives to invest in energy-efficient processes, makes energy-intensive products cheaper and harms climate protection. In addition, the thicket of special regulations causes high costs for the state and companies. The study, which was prepared by FÖS, Öko-Institut and GWS for the Federal Environment Agency, therefore makes suggestions as to how the exemptions can be harmonized and further developed in the interests of environmental and climate protection.