Germany Bumps Forward Its Goal Of 100% Renewable Energy Sources To 2035

Germany has accelerated its aim of fulfilling the country’s electricity needs solely with renewable sources to 2035, bumping up its previous target to stop the use of fossil fuels “well before 2040.”

The move comes as pressures mount from other European nations for the country to be less reliant on Russian gas. And with its plans to halt coal-fired power plants by 2030, renewable energy sources are one of the only other options.

“This not only benefits climate protection but also makes us independent of Putin’s gas, oil, and coal,” said Oliver Krischer, Parliamentary State Secretary in the Ministry of Economics and Climate Protection.

According to Reuters, the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG) is confident that wind or solar power will make up 80% of the nation’s energy sources by 2030.

Its onshore wind energy will double to a capacity of 110 gigawatts, with its offshore sources reaching 30 GW, equivalent to 10 nuclear power plants. Plus, solar energy sources are expected to triple to 200 GW.

As per Electrive, to incentivize companies to reach these goals, Germany will implement higher subsidy rates for solar systems in private homes, as well as promote the use of renewable energy sources on farmers’ fields.

German Finance Minister Christian Lindner said renewable energy sources will make up “the energy of freedom” in the nation.

[via Reuters and Electrive, cover image via Manwolste | Dreamstime.com]