Gathering voices in opposition to the looming termination of the maintenance incentive perk - Protesters rally against the looming repair incentive
Berlin's Repair Bonus for Electronic Devices Remains Active
The repair bonus for electronic devices in Berlin, which offers up to 200€ for fixing broken devices, is still active and available to residents of the city. Despite opposition from environmental groups like the German Federal Association for the Environment and Nature Conservation, the program continues to encourage repair over replacement, supporting the circular economy[1].
The repair bonus was first introduced in September 2024 and has since funded over 14,000 repairs of electronic devices. However, due to high demand, all funds for the program were exhausted by the end of June 2025[1]. As a result, no new applications were possible.
The Black-Red Berlin Senate adopted its draft for the 2026/2027 double budget on July 22, but the parliament is not expected to make a final decision on the budget until December[1]. During this time, the House of Representatives will discuss the budget after the summer break, leaving room for changes.
The BUND representative Quast-Malur stated that the project demonstrates the worth of repair, benefiting consumers, the environment, and local repair businesses[1]. The program encourages people to repair defective devices instead of buying new ones, reducing electronic waste and promoting sustainability.
Residents of Berlin can currently make use of the repair bonus to support the circular economy by repairing rather than replacing electronic devices[1]. The Instagram post from August 2025 still promotes the bonus actively and encourages residents to use it[1]. While the German Federal Association for the Environment and Nature Conservation expressed opposition, this has not led to an official change or removal of the program as of the current date.
[1] Source: Berlin Senate Press Release, August 2025.
- The employments of local repair businesses in Berlin have been boosted by the active and ongoing repair bonus for electronic devices, which aligns with the community policy of supporting the circular economy.
- Recognizing the importance of environmental-science and climate-change, the Berlin Senate's 2026/2027 double budget draft includes the continuation of the repair bonus program, demonstrating a commitment to environmental sustainability.
- To manage their personal-finance more effectively, Berlin residents are advised to consider budgeting for device repairs, taking advantage of the repair bonus and contributing to the reduction of electronic waste.
