Yes, Germany did implement temporary measures to allow some coal-fired power plants to return to the electricity market or extend their operations, especially in response to the energy crisis triggered by Russia’s war in Ukraine and the subsequent reduction in natural gas supplies.
Here’s a breakdown:
1. **Original Plan:** Germany has a long-standing commitment to phase out coal-fired power generation, with a goal of exiting hard coal by 2030 (and lignite as well, with the last lignite plants expected to shut down by then, or 2038 at the latest under previous legislation).
2. **Energy Crisis Impact:** The significant reduction in natural gas imports from Russia and the ensuing surge in natural gas prices in 2022 made gas-fired electricity generation extremely expensive and raised concerns about energy security, particularly for the upcoming winters.
3. **Temporary Activation of Coal Plants:** To conserve natural gas for heating and industrial use, and to ensure electricity supply, the German government passed legislation (the “Substitute Power Plant Provision Act” in 2022) that allowed certain coal-fired power plants, which were either in reserve or slated for decommissioning, to return to the grid temporarily. This included both lignite and hard coal plants.
4. **Purpose:** These measures were explicitly described as short-term, emergency steps to navigate the crisis, not a reversal of Germany’s long-term climate goals or its commitment to the coal phase-out. The government reiterated that the 2030 coal phase-out target remains.
5. **Current Situation:** While some of these plants were reactivated, Germany continues to invest heavily in renewable energy expansion. The extent to which coal is relied upon can fluctuate with gas prices, weather, and the availability of renewable energy.
In essence, Germany did “look again” at coal-powered electricity as a temporary measure to ensure energy security during a period of acute crisis, but its long-term policy remains firmly committed to phasing out coal.
