The current government proposal envisages expanding the instrument of avoidance agreements in electricity and gas supply contracts and extending the corresponding deadlines. At the same time, the establishment of a hardship fund is planned. Needy consumers should be able to apply to the social welfare office to have their energy debts taken over. This is intended to prevent energy blockages.

Government wants to avoid energy blackouts

In the vzbv's opinion, the federal government should develop a solution in which needy consumers can be sure that they will not have to sit in the dark or freeze without having to submit a separate application to the social welfare office. In the opinion of the vzbv, it should also be ensured that their energy debts are taken over by the public sector.

Demands of the vzbv against energy barriers

If this cannot be implemented, the vzbv demands that at least the following points be added to the federal government's current proposal:

  • The Energy Industry Act temporarily stipulates that household customers can freely determine their monthly payment in current electricity and gas supply contracts.
  • The planned hardship fund for private consumers will be provided with sufficient financial resources and the social welfare offices will be increased in terms of staff in order to be able to cope with a possible flood of applications.
  • The federal government informs the population at an early stage about the options for applying for social benefits to pay off energy debts.
  • The federal government will create the conditions for socially differentiated direct payments from the federal government by mid-2023 at the latest.

Source:

Federal Association of Consumer Organizations
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