Germany reconsiders coal phase out due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine

Synopsis

Germany's reliance on Russian gas places the country in an awkward position, as stopping imports could significantly impact Moscow's revenue while also affecting the German economy and environment. The country faces the possibility of returning to coal, a fossil fuel it aimed to phase out by 2028. An open cast mine in eastern Germany produces around 8 million tons of lignite annually, supplying a nearby coal-fired power plant. Despite plans to shut down two of the plant's six blocks this year and next, the current energy supply situation raises concerns about the future of coal. The environmentalist Green Party, part of Germany's coalition government, remains hesitant to abandon its goal of phasing out coal by 2030. However, with the uncertainty surrounding Russian natural gas supplies, Germany is reconsidering its position stopping coal imports and may keep its plants operational beyond the planned deadline.