A new report recommends ten key measures, including overhauling subsidy schemes, reducing support for renewables, and establishing technologies like CCS and CCU, though critics argue these may hinder climate goals.

Prior to the report's release, expectations of drastic cuts to renewable energy were high, but these were not confirmed, leading to ongoing debates about the future of Germany's energy policy.

The report, produced by the Institute of Energy Economics at the University of Cologne and BET Consulting, highlights uncertainties in future electricity demand, estimating it could range from 600 to 700 TWh in 2030, with Reiche favoring the lower end due to slower electrification.

Critics fear that Reiche's policies might threaten Germany's climate neutrality target, especially the goal of reaching climate neutrality by 2045.

The report and Reiche's ten-point plan are viewed by some as political tools to delay critical decisions on energy infrastructure, including negotiations with Brussels on gas plants and hydrogen readiness.

Reiche plans to promote CCS and CCU as climate solutions, but environmental groups like Greenpeace criticize these as superficial fixes.

Think tanks warn that slowing renewable expansion is short-sighted and costly, risking long-term climate and economic goals.

The early hesitation in investing in renewables could jeopardize Germany’s 2030 goal of 80% renewable electricity, especially as wind and solar development face setbacks due to grid connection issues.

Critics from environmental groups and opposition parties warn that the slowdown in renewable expansion and support for gas plants could reverse progress on climate targets.

The report, delayed due to dependencies on the Federal Network Agency, was commissioned by Reiche's ministry and aims to analyze demand, costs, and infrastructure needs.

Reactions to the report are mixed: industry supports the focus on system efficiency, while critics, including Green Party members, accuse Reiche of delaying the energy transition and raising costs for consumers.

Germany's Economy Minister Katherina Reiche announced a revision of the country's energy transition strategy, focusing on reducing costs, improving efficiency, and ensuring supply security while maintaining Germany's commitment to climate neutrality by 2045.

Reiche has criticized the expansion of renewable energy sources like wind and solar, questioning subsidies and proposing a shift away from fixed feed-in tariffs for new renewables.