The German industrial sector is a central component of its economic success. However, its investment activities are weak in comparison internationally. There are concerns that the high costs of the energy transition - one major part of climate change policy - could decrease industrial competitiveness and Germany’s allure as an industrial production location. To prevent this, German policymakers offer substantial exemptions for energy intensive industries in order to keep costs low. This study shows that only a few industrial branches have both high energy costs and a high export intensity, however. They generally feature a comparatively old capital stock. Overall, industry benefits from the demand for climate protection technologies. This calls for a shift in current policy, which should focus on incentives for innovative low carbon technologies. Exemptions should be granted to a limited number of energy intensive industries only for a limited time.