Vast majority of companies in Germany support energy transition – survey

Most German companies are in favour of the country's energy transition, with 85 percent supporting the policy agenda, according to a survey commissioned by the German Technical Inspection Association (TÜV). The survey, conducted by Forsa, looked into 500 companies with 20 or more employees. Despite the high level of approval for the energy transition, the survey also found that around half the companies consider the financial burden of transitioning to renewable energies and the high regulatory requirements placed on them to achieve climate targets to be "very high". While some see the energy transition as a threat to their business, more feel that they benefit from it or see it as an opportunity for innovation.

The companies surveyed have clear demands for politicians to drive forward the energy transition and promote green technologies in Germany. Faster approval procedures is at the top of the list, which 95 percent of respondents consider to be important for the success of the energy transition. Other demands include research and development programmes, as well as tax breaks, subsidies and other financial incentives.

A recent analysis found that major German companies had reduced their emissions by four percent along the entire value chain. Earlier this year, a report found that it was young people and the competition for future employees that was driving the commitment of German companies to sustainability. Environmental issues have, however, slid down the list of German managers’ priorities behind cost reductions, cybersecurity, skills shortages, digital transformation and securing liquidity.