The prerequisite for an application is proof of an increase in energy costs of at least 50 percent in the past year compared to 2021. A one-off subsidy of 90 percent can be applied for on the additional costs above this. According to Economics Senator Stephan Schwarz (non-partisan), this means that the protective umbrella for Berlin's economy is now complete. Previously, the Senate had already approved loans for businesses with liquidity problems due to inflation and energy cost increases, as well as heating cost assistance for businesses, among others.