“The longer part of the path still lies ahead of us”

Germany still has a long way to go before “the aim of a post-fossil society” is reached, Klaus Stratmann writes in Handelsblatt. “The share of renewables in primary energy consumptions so far stands at only 14 percent,” he explains. The 30 percent share of renewables in the power sector is “remarkably high”, but transportation, industry, agriculture, and housing continue to emit enormous amounts of CO₂, he writes. Consequently, a further substantial rise in renewable power supply and sector coupling needs to be implemented. “This implies the electrification of all areas of life. A gigantic project.” Reducing prices for green power, garnering acceptance for further renewables expansion, and dealing with the fossil legacy are all tasks for Germany’s next government, he adds.

For background, read the CLEW dossier The energy transition and climate change and the CLEW factsheet Germany’s energy consumption and power mix in charts.