Overview

• Katherina Reiche, a seasoned energy manager and CDU veteran, has been appointed to succeed Robert Habeck as Germany's Economic Affairs and Energy Minister.
• Her portfolio will lose significant climate-protection responsibilities, which will now fall under the Environment Ministry as part of the coalition agreement.
• Germany's economy is projected to enter its third consecutive year without growth, prompting calls for reforms to reduce bureaucracy, lower taxes, and accelerate planning processes.
• Reiche’s immediate priorities include reforming the controversial Heating Act with a technology-open approach and ensuring continuous expansion of renewable energy and grid infrastructure.
• Economic and energy associations emphasize the need for stability in investment frameworks and public acceptance of new high-voltage transmission lines to support the energy transition.