War’s knock-on effects could lead to Germany missing emissions reduction targets - energy industry

Germany might struggle to keep up with emission reduction targets in the energy sector due to the knock-on effects of Russia’s assault on Ukraine, the German Federation of Energy and Water Industries (BDEW) has said. In an analysis of the war’s implications for Germany’s energy supply security, the BDEW said the industry will “assess all options available in the short, medium and long run to make energy supply more independent and resilient.” This might have “temporary effects on short-term emissions reduction targets,” the lobby group added. The BDEW also said the Russian invasion will cause already high energy prices to increase further, meaning there will be “undeniable consequences” for energy companies’ procurement practices. Even though Germany will remain an energy importer in the future, the “fast and massive expansion of renewable energy sources” is now needed more than ever in order to maximise energy autonomy.

Even before Russia started invading Ukraine, highly volatile gas prices and its aim of becoming climate neutral by 2045 had the German government prepare a thorough overhaul of the country's renewable support policies. This week, the economy and climate ministry send first proposals for a massively increased roll-out of wind and solar power to other ministries for review. A first legal package on faster renewables expansion is expected to be complete by Easter.