Survey: Germans are worried about increased energy costs in the coming winter

Almost one in two Germans fears that the cost of energy for the coming winter it will cause him a “big burden”, while consumers express particular concern natural gas.

According to a study by the Institute for Macroeconomics and Business Cycle Research (IMK) of the Hans Beckler Foundation, the percentage of citizens who say they are “burdened a lot” by energy prices has risen sharply in recent months. As a result, the Institute’s researchers expect a significant reduction in consumption energy in the coming months, in response to the threat of a loss of purchasing power.

The pressure to save is constantly intensifying in the middle classes, explains head of research Sébastien Dullien and points out that 64% of respondents states that it will “somewhat” or “significantly” reduce going out for fun. 63% plans to cut back on spending on home appliances and furniture and the 61% clothing and footwear markets.

At the same time, however, as announced today by the Federal Statistical Service, there is some slowdown in the increase in the prices of agricultural products. Last May the increase was 35.6% compared to the previous year, while in June it was limited to 33.9% and in July to 33.4%. Compared to June, producer prices decreased in August by 0.8%. Instead, animal product prices rose significantly in July compared to 2021. Indicatively, the price of milk increased by 52%, chicken by 42%, potatoes by 33% and rapeseed oil by 25%.