German energy transition no model for other countries

Germany's climate policy enjoys much prestige in the world, however calls in major countries to mimic Germany's energy transition raises apparent skepticism. The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung draws this conclusion from a survey of climate politicians in China, India, Russia and America. Germany owes its high reputation to its commitment to international climate protection and its strength in energy and environmental technology. Also the rapid expansion of green electricity and the administrative experiences of these energies should be recognized, according to the investigation, which the CDU party detention will present this Monday.

However, these points are also seen critically. German technology is considered expensive. "The energies are also associated with high costs," the study authors write. In this way, the technology is not easily transferable to other countries.

Energiewende could have a deterrent effect

The researchers advise the German government to use the reputation of Germany in climate policy, but to examine the effect of energy consumption. With knowledge and technology transfers, discussions on energy and resource efficiency and administrative processes, Germany could provide impetus for climate protection. The energy transition could be an example if it were an economic success model. In the worst case, however, it could have a deterring effect. "International partners should, therefore, primarily understand a realistic picture of the current state of energy conversion." Experiences, both good and bad, should be shared.

According to the study, the motives for climate protection are very different. In China, for example, the use of economic opportunities, the improvement of competitiveness and the international image - also with regard to air quality - are decisive. This is countered by a higher growth as well as the enforceability of climate zones on the provincial level. Germany was regarded as a cooperative partner.

Climate protection is behind

In India, which is the fourth largest carbon emitter after China, America and the EU, the fight against poverty and thus the target conflict between growth and climate protection are the focus. Although the consequences of climate change are felt, the reduction of climate-damaging emissions is a subordinate policy objective. The regulatory weaknesses are great, the administration and the political will are weak, there is a lack of capital and knowledge. India expects international aid.

In Russia, the economic impact would be the main focus. Man-made climate change is being questioned partly, which also applies to the meaningfulness of climate protection policy. The Paris "agreement" with the aim of limiting the rise in the earth's temperature to a maximum of 2 degrees is met with indifference. As Russia's share of global greenhouse gas emissions is twice as high as that of Germany, the country's influence on the climate is considered to be low. The agreement to the Paris agreement is justified by its non-binding nature and the interest of Russia in international influence.

In the interest of the other states

In America, the situation has been unclear since the election of Donald Trump to the next president, even though he has recently softened his harsh statements against climate protection policy. American experts interviewed before the election emphasized that emissions reductions in America were mainly driven by short- to medium-term economic considerations. The oil, gas and coal industry is politically strong. Technically and administratively, Germany is regarded as a model and a partner.

Translation from German to English via Google Translate