Publications

In our latest ‘KlimaSozial kompakt’, we show how socially targeted subsidies and relief measures can be structured. This includes a uniformly defined income concept, the establishment of a nationwide register containing income data, tax IDs and account details, and the consistent implementation of the once-only principle. This will also enable state modernisation and reducing bureaucracy of administrative processes.

The transformation of the electricity system in Germany is in full swing. Renewable energies increase significantly. In view of the high investment requirements in a relatively short period of time, it is important from a climate and social perspective to develop alternatives to levy financing and to systematically consider and evaluate the needs of low-income households at an early stage and implement support strategies.

How can targeted subsidies for electric cars be designed in such a way that they enable lower and middle income groups to switch to electric vehicles while also benefiting the climate and the economy? We (Zukunft KlimaSozial together with Agora Verkehrswende) propose a two-stage approach: The primary goal of the first stage should be to bring electric vehicles to the mass market and introduce income-based subsidies. A second stage should then provide greater support to people who are particularly affected by high carbon pricing. For implementation, we recommend a combination of subsidies for vehicle leasing, purchase loans and purchase grants, differentiated according to vehicle price and income.

More policy instruments are needed that reduce emissions while at the same time promoting social aspects. These climate and social measures are already being implemented in many European countries. In our ‘KlimaSozial kompakt’ we take a look at our neighbouring countries and present seven European examples from which Germany could learn.

By the end of June 2025, the German government must present a Social Climate Plan for the European Social Climate Fund. Read our Policy Brief to find out what the Social Climate Fund is and what it should include.

With the publication of our Summary ‘Securing a socially just and climate-neutral future – 11 Insights for a Social Climate Policy’ in June 2024, we began our work as a new think tank, contributing our expertise, ideas and concepts to the social dialogue.

The Short Version of our Summary ‘Securing a socially just and climate-neutral future – 11 Insights for a Social Climate Policy’.