Economy Minister Robert Habeck (Green Party) is facing criticism from within his own party for questioning the coal exit by 2030. “We can’t tamper with the coal exit in the Rhineland coal mining region” said Green Party MP Kathrin Henneberger to the “Tagesspiegel” (Monday edition).
Henneberger, from North Rhine-Westphalia, warned Habeck, “The climate crisis is too urgent for us to continue burning coal.”
Luisa Neubauer, a climate activist and Green Party member, also criticized Habeck, stating, “There’s no reason to pit energy security against climate goals, especially not for a minister who is responsible for both.”
The coal exit by 2030 is possible and affordable, Neubauer said, adding, “Climate reality shows us daily that it’s also urgently needed.” For any future coalition, a rapid and affordable energy transition will be a core task, and there are no more excuses in this regard.
Habeck had stated on Friday at an event that he questions the coal exit by 2030, saying, “For me, energy security always has absolute priority.” Without alternatives for securing energy, the coal power plants cannot be shut down.