Germany’s federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to renewable energy expansion but stressed that producers must help keep the energy transition affordable.
Parliamentary state secretary Stefan Rouenhoff told the opening of Husum Wind that the new administration “is sticking to the targets” and will continue supporting the sector.
“Wind and other renewables make a significant contribution to decarbonisation, and wind energy has become the mainstay of electricity supply in Germany,” he said.
Rouenhoff added that the government will stimulate investment through contracts for difference and secured PPAs, but warned: “We need to focus on the competitiveness of our industry … we need to [achieve the energy transition] cost-effectively.”
His comments followed publication of a monitoring report by economy and energy minister Katherina Reiche listing ten priorities for policy, with a focus on cost efficiency.
Rouenhoff said wind will be vital for security of supply in Germany and Europe and underlined the local wealth created by renewable projects.
“A common goal for renewable energy expansion is local value creation,” he said.