Germans lose confidence in power sector over energy transition - survey

Nov 13, 2013 - The Germans' confidence in the energy sector has declined in the fourth quarter of 2013, according to a survey published by the German PR agency association GPRA on Monday.

The survey was conducted by consultancy firm TNS Emnid. The GPRA-trust index, published on a quarterly basis, shows the consumers' confidence in the eight most important industries in the German economy such as the health care, financial and automotive sectors.

The energy industry came in last in the trust ranking and is the only sector to suffer a decline compared with the February reading. The reasons for the growing mistrust are the rising energy prices, the continuing debate about the renewable energy act (EEG) and a lack of clear policy.

Nearly three-quarters of the surveyed Germans do not trust statements made by the utilities, which represents a 4.58% decrease to 28.4 points from February. Some 31% of those polled trust the energy companies. Only 22% of the Germans believe energy companies are socially responsible.

According to GPRA head Uwe Kohrs, the energy companies need to communicate with consumers more honestly, credibly and transparently.

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