The Role of Natural Gas, Renewables and Energy Efficiency in Decarbonisation in Germany: The need to complement renewables by decarbonized gas to meet the Paris targets

As the European region continues to prioritise the decarbonisation of its energy system, Germany provides a fascinating case study of the potential gains and pitfalls from the introduction of renewables into the energy mix, in particular with relation to gas. In this extensive review of German energy policy and its impact over the past few years, Ralf Dickel analyses the reasons why gas has, to date, failed to make a strong case for a long-term role in the country, arguing that the gas industry has failed to make the important distinction between a carbon-free energy sector and an all-renewable energy sector.

By: Ralf Dickel