Fuel is becoming more and more expensive at the petrol pumps.
Raw material prices are also rising.
The consequences for the economy are immense, the first calls for state aid are loud.
Potsdam - According to the Berlin-Brandenburg employers' association, the high prices in the energy sector could become an existential issue for companies.
"Material bottlenecks and rising energy prices will slow down the East German economy," said Burkhardt Greiff, President of the Brandenburg-Berlin Entrepreneurs' Association and spokesman for the association of entrepreneurs in East Germany and Berlin.
“Perhaps the non-dependence on foreign markets could be an advantage for regional Brandenburg companies in the future,” Greiff continued.
An earlier phase-out of coal-fired power generation than 2038 can only be discussed if sufficient replacement is available.
"From today's perspective, the supply of enough regenerative energy to replace coal-based electricity looks rather critical," he emphasized.
In addition, the remaining nuclear power plants in Germany should not be shut down in the next 18 months.
"Here, too, longer running times are conceivable."
Greiff said that costs would see double-digit increases in all energy-dependent industries.
State corporate aid in view of the explosion in energy prices is conceivable and may also be necessary.
Difficult times are expected for the economy and private end users, and primarily for lower income groups.
"It will be a stress test for everyone involved," said Greiff.
Investments would be postponed, companies in the chemical and pharmaceutical sectors, for example, would have to cut production.
There could be temporary closings in car manufacturing.
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"As part of the cost reductions, job cuts and short-time working will not be avoidable," said Greiff.
The breaks in the supply chains and the lack of raw materials, along with rising energy prices, are extreme challenges for the economy.
dpa