© dpa
On Tuesday, the Berlin Senate wants to launch further points of its relief package in view of high energy prices.
This involves the reduced-price social ticket for local public transport as well as the expansion of energy-saving advice services for citizens and businesses.
At the moment, the social ticket for public transportation in Berlin costs around 27 euros per month. From January to March 2023, it is to be offered for 9 euros per month, and the number of people eligible for the ticket is to be significantly increased compared to the current social ticket. Around 650,000 people in Berlin will be entitled to the new ticket. The regular monthly ticket for public transportation is currently offered on a subscription basis for 29 euros a month. This heavily discounted price is to apply until at least the end of March.
Due to the sharp rise in gas and electricity prices, the demand for advice on how to save energy and cope with costs has also increased. The Senate wants to respond to this demand by expanding its consulting services. One of the plans is to offer energy-saving advice not only at established institutions such as the consumer advice center. Other social services already supported by the state, such as family centers, neighborhood management offices and district mothers, are also to be added.
Another topic in the Senate is cab fares. Three years after the last fare increase, an average increase of 20 percent is planned before Christmas. This also affects the airport tariff for BER Airport in Schönefeld, which was already adjusted in May this year.