Who stays in the 16+1 format? + Energy saving plans worldwide + Open RAN + VAT on gas levy

Gas and electricity could become scarce and very expensive commodities in winter. European leaders are therefore already pledging solidarity. From many member states’ points of view, however, this also includes Germany keeping its remaining three nuclear power plants on the grid beyond the end of the year. Yesterday, the Wall Street Journal reported that the German government wants to postpone the shutdown. Federal Economic Affairs Minister Robert Habeck (Greens) issued a harsh denial, saying the report lacked “any factual basis”. Nevertheless, there are many indications that the coalition is laying the foundation for the politically sensitive decision.

The Baltic countries have already implemented their decision to withdraw from the former 16+1 format with China. Does this now mean the collapse of the cooperation format? Probably not, according to Amelie Richter. It is true that other countries could follow the Baltic states’ example. But key candidates still benefit too much from China to make leaving worthwhile.

The Open RAN initiative generated high expectations. It was supposed to provide independence from China in the telecommunications sector and, even more importantly, security. But scientists now warn that the threat of dependence on China in mobile communications technology still remains. Falk Steiner took a closer look at the paper.

The German Mechanical Engineering Industry Association (VDMA) has serious reservations about the CSR Directive, which will impose new sustainability reporting obligations on SMEs. In today’s Opinion, VDMA expert Sarah Brückner calls for the reporting requirements to be streamlined. Otherwise, it is not the environment that ultimately stands to benefit from the Brussels plans – but the consulting industry, through a guaranteed increase in contracts.

I wish you an exciting read.

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Lisa-Martina Klein