3.8 - Germany

Question 1

What policies has Germany implemented to ensure more sustainable energy consumption and generation?

Answer 1

• Supported constructions of wind farms
• subsidised renewable power
• fixed high energy and electricity prices for 20 years

Question 2

What impact has Germany’s policies regarding energy consumption and generation had?

Answer 2

• Industry has been able to recoup costs associated with renewables
• increase in funding has meant renewables now form 30% of energy mix (2015)
  
  • up from 3.5% in 1990

Question 3

What are Germany’s aims for the future?

Answer 3

Renewables form:
- 40-50% by 2025
- 55-60% by 2035

• Replace feed in tariffs with auctions
  
  • make investors bid for solar/wind projects

Question 4

What are feed in tariffs?

Answer 4

• pre-determined tariffs paid to renewable producers when they sell energy to the national grid

Question 5

How do energy auctions allow Germany to develop its renewable sector?

Answer 5

• allows for competition between energy suppliers and bidders
  
  • means that renewables can be produced even more cheaply
  • means that producers also get the best price
  • makes producing and using renewables more financially appealing

Question 6

What controversial actions has Germany taken in its energy transition?

Answer 6

• phased out nuclear energy
  
  • resulted in temporary increase in coal and gas plants
• has not focussed on pushing consumers towards electric vehicles
  
  • has dragged its feet on 2035 petrol and diesel ban