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At issue is more than just a few kilometres of high-voltage line: the 2016 Renewable Energy Sources act amendment
The debate surrounding “EEG 3.0” (German Renewable Energy Sources act) is drawing to an end. As a reminder: With the last EEG (German Renewable Energy Sources act) reform in 2013, the introduction of tenders to determine the funding level for renewable energies was agreed. The sector took on the challenge. The Federal Ministry for Economics and Energy also set to work. The formal exchange began at the start of 2015 and is being conducted intensively on all sides. After several papers outlining the basic points, formal statements and the “Wismar Appeal”, all we can say is that the cards are still on the table.
The German Cabinet is due to agree to the recommended legislation during the second half of May, before it is sent to the Bundestag (the German federal parliament) for the first time on 17 June 2016. A decision will be made regarding the law before the summer break. It is uncertain whether we will be taken into account in the new legislation with our position. Together with the German federal states on the coast, we are fighting for an honest, consequent energy transition which meets the stipulations of the Paris Climate Agreement. In specific terms, this means that the 45% target (the portion of renewable energies accounted for in gross power consumption) from the draft EEG (Renewable Energy Sources act) must be a minimum goal and not a limit.
According to the draft, from 2021, only 730 MW of offshore wind energy capacity should be constructed per year. This means a further sharp reduction; innovative ideas and cost reduction potential would be severely hindered. It is probable that the manufacturing industry will be faced with another threat. At least 900 MW per annum are the lowest limit that the sector can tolerate.
The Federal Ministry for Economics and Energy is only planning to invite applications for tender for 2017 for the expansion over four years (2021-2024). This will decrease the potential for cost reduction. Bidders in the auction should submit bank guarantees of around 100 million Euros with their offer, and from 2020 onwards for even around double that amount. Regulations of this nature have a negative impact on medium-sized companies in particular.
Job creation and our position as leaders in technology and innovation are strong arguments for putting wind energy out to sea and onto the land, and not for taking the wind out of its sails. Precisely now, when renewable energies in the power sector have become the backbone of supply in Germany. It makes absolutely no sense to take action that would slow down this development. The Paris Agreement on climate protection shows very clearly what ambitious plans are needed when it comes to expanding renewable energies. The wind sector can make an important contribution to this expansion – and is keen to do so!
About Astrid Dose
Talking, writing, organising – and having lots of fun! This is what my days at the EEHH Cluster look like. I’ve been responsible for public relations and marketing for the Hamburg industry network since 2011. I studied History and English and have a soft spot for technical issues.
