By Nicholas Harbusch
CSU health expert Stephan Pilsinger (35) asked Robert Habeck (52, Greens) about emergency plans in the Ministry of Economic Affairs.
A letter from a state secretary states: “In the event of a shortage of gas or electricity, the Federal Network Agency (…) assumes the function of the federal load distributor. It is then responsible for the distribution of gas or electricity in close coordination with the network operators.”
These are “always individual decisions”. Means: There is no “shutdown sequence”, for example to protect the health system. The Habeck Ministry recommends “equipping with emergency power generators, especially for operators of critical infrastructure”. Backup time: 72 hours.
Pilsinger is appalled: “The fact that the government is recommending the purchase of emergency power generators is an oath of disclosure.” In this time of crisis, the Akw running times be extended.
In Hamburg, preparations are being made for an energy emergency. Environment Senator Jens Kerstan (56, Greens) has announced that the amount of hot water for private households will be limited in the event of a gas emergency in the Hanseatic city.
“In an acute gas shortage, warm water could only be made available at certain times of the day in an emergency,” Kerstan told Welt am Sonntag.
A “general reduction of the maximum room temperature in the district heating network” could also be considered.
Fireplaces and wood-burning stoves have also become scarce nationwide because of the fear of energy.
Furnace builders and installers can hardly save themselves from orders from concerned customers who want to install an additional heating option in their house or apartment.
“With the outbreak of war, demand exploded,” said a spokesman for the Central Association for Sanitary, Heating and Air Conditioning (ZVSHK).
