Bundeswirtschaftsministerin Katherina Reiche (CDU) has expressed concerns over an unrestricted expansion of renewable energy sources. In an interview with “Handelsblatt”, she emphasized that the success of the energy transition should not be measured by the number of installed photovoltaic systems, but rather by the reduction of CO2 emissions at affordable costs. The minister also highlighted the challenges associated with system costs, stating that parallel to the expansion of renewable energy, backup capacities and massive investments in network expansion are required. This, she explained, would entail significant financial resources.
Reiche called for a fundamental transformation, emphasizing that the operators of these facilities should bear their share of responsibility for system stability. She argued that they should not only benefit from state-funded support without considering system stability. The CDU politician announced her intention to further develop renewable energy support, prioritizing the benefits for the overall system. She stressed that renewable energy should be available at the right place and time where it is needed.
The Minister criticized the previous government’s approach of setting expansion targets for wind and solar energy based on rapidly increasing electricity consumption forecasts. However, current studies suggest a different picture, indicating that electricity demand is growing much slower than previously thought. Reiche emphasized that the expansion of renewable energy should be based on demand and closely linked to network expansion. She believes that this approach would be more efficient and sustainable in the long run.