Germany's steel industry faces intensifying pressure from gas and electricity costs, which the Steel Association identifies as existential priority. German electricity prices, carrying renewable surcharges and grid fees, exceed those of international competitors by substantial margins. This disadvantage threatens production viability while complicating the massive investments required for hydrogen-based decarbonisation. The industry seeks policy relief including reduced electricity taxes and accelerated renewable build-out. Without addressing immediate energy affordability, long-term green transformation strategies risk irrelevance as current operations struggle to compete globally.