Europe Seizes Possibility as Trump Downplays Climate Change
Berlin – Surroundings minister Carsten Schneider views US President Donald Trump’s skepticism towards climate change and rollback of renewable energy initiatives as a significant opportunity for the European Union. He argues that Europe can leverage its leadership in clean technologies to foster economic growth and create new jobs.
Speaking to the Funke newspapers,Schneider stated that Trump’s policies represent “a huge gift” to Europeans. He contrasted this with the previous concern that the US might leave the rest of the world behind on climate action. Now,with the US seemingly reversing course,Europe and China are positioned as frontrunners in developing and deploying clean technologies.
Trump recently labeled climate change a “hoax” during a United Nations address. Despite this, Schneider pointed out that the energy transition is continuing in the US, even in states like Texas, due to its economic benefits. He also expressed concern over anti-science trends in the US, emphasizing the need for Germany to strengthen European unity and advocate for shared interests.
The EU is poised to enhance its climate goals, with Schneider confirming support for the European Commission’s proposal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2040. He highlighted that this aligns with Germany’s own roadmap and serves the nation’s economic interests. “We want to work together in Europe to ensure fair conditions for everyone,” he stated, expressing confidence in persuading skeptical member states.
Germany’s Energy Strategy: balancing Costs and Capacity
within Germany, Schneider cautioned against an overreliance on gas power, stressing the importance of cost-effectiveness. He suggested that energy storage, efficiency improvements, and flexible demand management could often be more economical than natural gas. Any new gas power plants, he insisted, must be designed for future conversion to hydrogen. “The more gas we push out of the energy mix, the cheaper it will be for us,” he explained, referencing the coalition agreement which allows for up to 20 gigawatts of additional gas capacity, though the initial implementation will be significantly lower.
Addressing concerns about industrial energy consumption, Schneider urged Economics Minister Katherina Reiche to prioritize maintaining Germany’s industrial base. He noted the increasing energy demands of data centers and artificial intelligence, emphasizing the need for continued expansion of wind, solar, and biomass energy sources. While acknowledging the need for backup power sources when renewable energy is unavailable, he remained open to various technologies, including gas power plants.
Integrated Approach to Climate Action
Schneider advocated for linking planned energy transition laws with a comprehensive climate protection program. He underscored the importance of swift decision-making on a climate protection program,stating,”The energy transition is the driving force behind climate protection in Germany.” He proposed joint discussions between governing parties on the climate protection program and upcoming legislation, including the power plant strategy, the Renewable Energy Act, and the Building Energy Act.
