Consumer advice centers warn of high price burdens in 2024
Despite a recent slowdown in inflation, consumer associations are warning that prices will remain high in 2024. The head of the German consumer association (vzbv), Ramona Pop, told the German Press Agency: "Energy will once again become significantly more expensive for many private households next year."
After the end of the state energy price brakes at the end of the year, consumers would face new burdens such as higher grid fees and rising CO2 prices. People rightly expect the coalition government to compensate them with a climate money.
"Otherwise, the federal government risks gambling away people's trust, especially for the urgently needed energy transition," said Pop. A model household with a gas consumption of 20,000 kilowatt hours would have to pay 162 euros for the CO2 price next year instead of 110 euros this year. Pop explained: "Almost half of Germany's economic output is attributable to private consumption." When people feel insecure or overwhelmed, they hold back. "That doesn't do much for the economy either."
Consumers feel left in the lurch
In particular, galloping food prices continue to cause many people problems. "A healthy, varied and sustainable diet should not be a question of money in Germany," warned Pop. However, consumers felt let down by constantly rising prices in the supermarket. The federal government must bring all relevant players to the table for a "price summit" and work out possible courses of action.
This includes ensuring greater price transparency and providing relief for those who already don't know how to make ends meet on a low income. "It is absolutely unclear how prices for certain foods are made up and who ends up making how much profit," criticized the consumer advocate.
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In response to these high price burdens, some consumer centers are advocating for the establishment of consumer price summits to discuss potential solutions. These summits would aim to increase price transparency and provide relief for households struggling with rising costs, especially in areas like food and energy.
Moreover, the potential increase in energy prices, as mentioned by vzbv's Ramona Pop, could significantly impact private households. This price increase could lead to increased grid fees and CO2 prices, potentially placing an additional financial strain on many households.
Source: www.ntv.de
