Study shows: Delayed energy transition weakens economic growth

Should the new federal government – ​​in whatever combination of colors – water down its climate protection targets, economic output would decline drastically. This would lead to declining investments in renewable energies, with corresponding impacts on value creation in Germany. In addition, job creation would be lower.

Investments at risk

This is the result of a short study commissioned by Green Planet Energy by the Forum for Ecological-Social Market Economy (FÖS). The analysts examined what it would mean for Germany's economic balance if the expansion of renewable energies by 2030 were 25 percent lower than planned in the current Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG). In this case, investments in renewables would be 65 billion euros lower than if the current target were maintained. This stipulates that 80 percent of gross electricity consumption should be covered by renewables. If this target is weakened, between seven and 13 billion euros in investment volume would be lost each year.

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Economic stimulus also through plant operation

If the expansion target remains in place, this will result in investments of €260 billion. In addition, the operation and maintenance of the plants will generate more than €70 billion in economic stimulus. Some of this would also be lost if the expansion targets were reduced. Analysts expect a €2 billion reduction in this scenario by 2030.

Many new jobs in sight

But the need for labor is also important. Analysts have calculated that if the 80 percent target is maintained, approximately 500,000 additional jobs will be created by 2030 – both in the construction and operation of the facilities. This corresponds to roughly double the number of jobs compared to 2023. If the expansion target were reduced by 25 percent, 65,000 new jobs would not be created.

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Renewables generate billions in investments

In light of these clear findings, Green Planet Energy, together with other green energy providers, is calling in an open letter to the CDU/CSU and SPD to consistently continue the successful course of the energy transition. A reversal in energy policy disguised as a "restart" or "change of course" endangers our energy independence, our economy, and climate protection, the providers write in their letter. "The new federal government must continue to consistently focus on the expansion of renewable energies," Carolin Dähling, Head of Policy and Communications at Green Planet Energy, summarizes the study's findings. "Slowing down the expansion of renewable energies not only jeopardizes climate goals, but also weakens the German economy. The figures speak for themselves: The expansion of wind and solar energy generates billions in investments, creates jobs, and reduces our dependence on fossil fuel imports," she says.

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Don't turn back success

Florian Zerzawy, Head of Energy Policy at the Federal Energy Service (FÖS), emphasizes that renewable energies are a key factor for economic success. "The study demonstrates the significant economic importance of solar, wind, and biomass," he says. "The new federal government should not jeopardize this success by rolling back energy transition targets," warns Florian Zerzawy.

The full study and open letter are available for download on the Green Planet Energy website. (see below)