Germany's Rush for Gas: A Climate Conundrum
In the serene landscapes of Germany's north-western coast, a looming controversy unfolds. Amidst the windswept dunes of the Wadden Sea, a nature reserve renowned for its rich biodiversity, a dark metal platform emerges from the waters. This structure, part of a Dutch-German venture, aims to extract 13 billion cubic meters of gas, just beyond the protected marine border between the two countries.
The project's inception sparks debate, as it contradicts the International Energy Agency's warning that new oil and gas development is incompatible with limiting global warming to 1.5C. It also clashes with the aspirations of Borkum, an island nearby, which strives to become gas-free by 2030. Jürgen Akkermann, the island's mayor, expresses frustration, calling it a 'punch in the face' to residents' efforts.
Germany's urgency to secure gas supplies, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, has led to a surge in fossil fuel projects. The country is racing to find new gas providers, building terminals and seeking domestic drilling opportunities. This summer, a court cleared the way for a controversial cable project in Borkum, while drilling commenced at a separate site in Bavaria. However, a gas extraction project in Brandenburg was delayed due to vague plans.
Critics argue that the rush for gas has accelerated under the new government coalition, with the economy minister, Katherina Reiche, advocating for gas-fired power plants and a 'reality check' on renewable energy. Carla Reemtsma, a climate activist, warns of the potential for more destructive projects, emphasizing the normalization of climate destruction.
The political landscape is shifting, with the far-right gaining support by attacking green policies and promoting the rollback of climate rules as a solution to economic challenges. Residents of Borkum, concerned about industrialization, highlight the economic reliance on tourism and the Wadden Sea's ecological significance as a UNESCO-recognized wildlife-rich zone.
Legal challenges arise as the gas extraction plans require a cable through a rocky reef, connecting the platform to an offshore wind farm. Green groups argue that this infrastructure will still release significant greenhouse gases when burned, despite the platform's electrification. The company behind the project, One-Dyas, addresses concerns by emphasizing cleaner gas and the need for continued investment in natural gas.
The German energy ministry, however, suggests scaling back renewable energy expansion, citing a report that predicts slower electricity demand growth. This proposal, criticized by green groups, includes cutting subsidies and building only what is necessary and economically viable. The ministry emphasizes the importance of supply security and affordability, while maintaining the coalition's commitment to climate neutrality by 2045.
As the debate rages on, the future of Germany's energy policy hangs in the balance, with the country's climate targets and industrial aspirations at stake.
