Energiewende

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The Energiewende (German for 'energy turnaround') (pronounced [ʔenɐˈɡiːˌvɛndə] ^ⓘ) is the ongoing energy transition by Germany to a low carbon, environmentally sound, reliable, and affordable energy supply.^[1] The new system intends to rely heavily on renewable energy (particularly wind, photovoltaics, and hydroelectricity), energy efficiency, and energy demand management.

Legislative support for the Energiewende was passed in late 2010 and included greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions of 80–95% by 2050 (relative to 1990) and a renewable energy target of 60% by 2050.^[2] Germany had already made significant progress on its GHG emissions reduction target before the introduction of the program, achieving a 27% decrease between 1990 and 2014. However, the country would need to maintain an average GHG emissions abatement rate of 3.5% per year to reach its Energiewende goal, equal to the maximum historical value thus far.^[3] Germany's overall energy mix still has a high CO₂ intensity due a significant coal and fossil gas usage.^[4]

As part of the Energiewende, Germany phased out nuclear power in 2023,^[5] and plans to retire all existing coal power plants by 2038.^[6] While the early retirement of the country's nuclear reactors was supported by the general public, it was controversial between energy experts, fearing that it could have a negative impact on Germany's goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.^[7]