Renewable energies: “When there are bottlenecks, we pay customers to use less”

Octopus Energy is one of Minister Reiche’s opponents. The government should not rely on gas, but rather flexibility in the network, demands boss Bastian Gierull.

April 28, 2026, 3:13 p.m

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Article summary

Bastian Gierull, Germany boss of Octopus Energy, criticizes German energy policy and emphasizes the need for flexible tariffs. The energy transition is being driven by consumers, not for ideological reasons, but for economic reasons. The federal government is criticized for its focus on fossil fuels and lack of flexibility. Gierull advocates a more intelligent use of electricity and criticizes the government’s expensive and climate-damaging policies. Despite challenges and resistance, he sees hope in the consumers who are already actively driving the energy transition.

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Declared electricity rebel: Bastian Gierull has been running the green electricity provider Octopus Energy from Munich since 2023.
© Louis Roth/DIE ZEIT

Bastian Gierull, 43, is the Germany boss of the British energy supplier Octopus Energy. The green electricity provider is shaking up the German electricity market with flexible tariffs. Gierull has experience as a founder; his start-ups included a nutrition platform and a company for invisible dental aligners. He has been at the helm of Octopus Energy Germany for five years.

THE TIME: Mr. Gierull, there is a culture war going on over energy supply in Germany. Would you have thought that the debate about our electricity would be so emotional?