Use of renewable energy sources instead of oil, coal and natural gas is the most important way to achieve the reduction targets for greenhouse gases which are harmful for the climate. In 2007 alone, renewable energy sources avoided CO2 emissions totalling 114 mln tonnes. This is approximately 15 mln tonnes more than in 2006. 57 mln tonnes CO2 saving alone was achieved
as an effect of the Renewable Energy Law (EEG), whose objective is to increase renewable energy‘s share of the power supply.

If the development potential in the electricity, heat and mobility sector continues to be tapped in a well-directed way and if by 2050 at least 50 % of the energy required in Germany is covered by renewable energy, around 370 mln tonnes CO2 emissions can be avoided annually. This already corresponds to around 45 % of the CO2 emissions currently caused by total energy production in Germany. If it is assumed that energy savings and efficiency measures will substantially cut energy requirements by 2050, the contribution made by renewable energy to CO2 avoidance will increase accordingly.