Germany sets out plan to phase out fossil fuels by 2045
Germany sets out a plan to phase out coal, oil and gas by 2045, reaffirming a climate strategy focused on electrification.
Germany has unveiled a plan to gradually eliminate fossil fuels by 2045. Environment Minister Carsten Schneider shared this roadmap at the UN General Assembly, explaining it balances independence, affordability, and climate protection. As Europe's biggest economy, Germany joins France and the Netherlands as the third nation to present a detailed phaseout plan.
The decision is tied to the Iran war's effect on fuel supplies globally, according to Schneider. He emphasized that the 19-year deadline is attainable, stating "Our roadmap is intended to set an international example."
Fossil fuels currently make up 65% of Germany's energy consumption in 2024, with 98% of its oil and 95% of its natural gas being imported at a cost of €76 billion. The minister highlighted that this figure has surged due to the Iran war. Several environmental groups applauded Berlin's plan, though some noted it contradicts recent government actions.
Greenpeace's Mira Jäger called it a positive step in international climate policy, while WWF's Fentje Jacobsen argued it repeats existing measures without new ambitions. Meanwhile, Energy Minister Katherina Reiche, from the conservative Christian Democrats, supports building new gas power plants and promoting combustion-engine vehicles, which conflicts with Germany's phaseout plan.
The plan aims for 100% battery-electric cars by 2035. Germany's car industry, a key part of the economy, has recently struggled, influencing the broader economic landscape.
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