Renewable energy on the German level

Development of renewable energy is an important part of the Federal Government's climate and energy policy. Targets for electricity, heat and fuels are defined in the "Integrated Climate and Energy Programme" published at the end of 2007.

Since 2000, the Renewable Energy Law has promoted electricity production from regenerative energy sources. It forms the basis for a dynamic and innovative industry, 300,500 new jobs and large export successes. Wind and solar energy, biomass and water power today cover more than 16 percent of German electricity requirements. They have therefore exceeded the political target planned for 2010 ahead of schedule. The Federal Government wants to increase the share more than 30 percent by 2020. The renewable energy industry even assumes a 47 percent share of electricity requirements, subject to efficiency increases and resolute political action.

Heat from renewable energy is currently subsidised with the market incentive programme. It provides investment grants for wood pellet, wood-chip fired heating systems, solar heating systems and heat pumps. Renewable energy currently provides 8.8 percent of German heat requirements. The Renewable Energy Heat Law is intended to improve development of the potential still further and to increase the heat share to 14 percent by 2020. The renewable energy industry aims to achieve a 25 percent share.

In the transport sector renewable energy makes a 5.5 percent contribution. The Federal Government wants the share of biofuels to be increased to around 12 percent by 2020 and more emphasis to be placed on reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Charts and Data

Greenhouse gas emissions and renewable energy in Germany

Renewable energy is a key to climate protection. Already in 2007 Germany exceeded its Kyoto-target.

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Study

Renewable energy sources in figures - national and international...

Berlin, December 2008. Federal Environment Ministry

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