Germany's Emissions Drop 49% Since 1990; New Report Warns Against Slowing Renewables
Germany is stepping up its climate efforts, with a new analysis by Agora Energiewende revealing a 49% reduction in emissions since 1990. The 'Effiziente Energiewende' report, presented on October 8, 2025, in Berlin, outlines strategies to achieve climate neutrality. Director Julia Blásius warns against slowing renewable energy expansion despite recent decreases in electricity demand.
The analysis suggests several instruments to keep electrification on track. These include reducing electricity prices, integrating national CO2 pricing into ETS II, and modernizing infrastructure. Four strategic levers are identified: electrification, flexibility, minimizing grid costs, and expanding energy. Increased consumption by data centers and energy storage technologies also plays a role.
Electricity consumption is projected to reach 701 Terawatt-hours by 2030, a decrease from previous estimates due to delayed electric mobility and heat pump rollouts, and recession-driven industrial consumption decreases. The analysis emphasizes improving onshore wind energy integration, optimizing offshore wind power use, and pursuing cost-effective photovoltaics options.
Germany, currently ranking 12th globally and first in Europe for emissions with annual per capita emissions of 8.26 tons, is committed to its energy transition. The 'Effiziente Energiewende' analysis shows progress, but Director Julia Blásius cautions against slowing energy expansion, despite recent decreases in demand. The country aims to maintain its climate neutrality goals, planning for increasing electricity demand beyond 2030.
