The energy crisis in Germany is heating up, and it's not just about higher bills! 🔥 The conflict in Ukraine has sparked an unprecedented surge in energy prices across the EU.🇪🇺
Since Berlin started reducing its reliance on affordable Russian energy, gas prices for non-household customers have skyrocketed by nearly 39%, according to Germany's Federal Statistical Office. Electricity isn't far behind, climbing up by 19%. 💡
For small and medium-sized businesses, this is a heavy blow. Already trying to bounce back from the COVID-19 pandemic, they're now wrestling with these soaring costs. Thomas Petermann, who runs a cozy butcher shop in Saarland, western Germany, is feeling the pinch. 🥩💔 He worries he might not be able to pass the family business down to his son.
\"It's not just numbers on a bill,\" Thomas shares. \"It's our livelihood, our legacy.\"
And Thomas isn't alone. Across Germany, many are anxious about what the future holds. With energy prices showing no signs of cooling down, the road ahead looks challenging. But if there's one thing these resilient communities teach us, it's the power of sticking together and pushing through tough times. 💪✨
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
