Germany changes plans. All because of the weather change and the crisis

German media report on an unusual decision of energy operators – in the face of a deficit of energy from renewable sources, all available coal-fired power plants were launched. Cloudy weather, thick fog and limited energy production from wind and solar installations forced the Germans to use reserve power.

Crisis actions of the German energy sector

Lausitz Energie Mining AG (Leag), one of the largest energy operators in Germany, announced the full launch of coal units. The aim of these activities is to ensure the stability of energy supplies during periods of increased demand. As the company’s spokesman Thomas Lehmann emphasizes, this decision was necessary to maintain the stability of the German energy network.

According to reports in the German press, the current situation poses a serious challenge to the country’s long-term energy policy, which assumes the elimination of coal as an energy source. “The tense situation forced operators to launch reserve generation capacities, even though they are in contradiction with climate goals,” analysts note.

The energy crisis is affecting prices

The unexpected renewable energy deficit also triggered a sharp increase in prices on the German energy market. According to the media, the price of electricity on the stock exchange has reached a record level of one thousand euros per megawatt hour. This situation has a negative impact on both industry and households, which have to face drastically higher bills.

Experts emphasize that the current problems are not a one-off incident. “Periods of shortage of renewable energy are becoming more frequent, especially in the winter months, when the days are short and production from photovoltaics and wind drops significantly,” market analysts emphasize.

Controversy surrounding the decision

The decision to reactivate coal-fired power units sparked a wide discussion in Germany. Supporters emphasize the need to maintain conventional energy sources as a backup in crisis situations. Critics, however, point out the contradiction with the German strategy of moving away from coal and CO₂ emissions.

Lausitzer Rundschau, one of the German media, quotes the Leag operator: “The launch of all generation capacities is crucial to ensuring the country’s energy security.” However, this decision undermines Germany’s image as a leader of the energy transformation in Europe.

Lessons from the crisis

The current situation highlights the need for a flexible approach to managing energy sources in Germany. Although renewable energy sources are the pillar of the country’s climate policy, they are not yet able to ensure full system stability. The reactivation of coal-fired power plants shows that despite ambitious goals, Germany still has to rely on conventional energy sources at critical times.