Electricity in Germany in 2024
In 2024, Germany's electricity consumption reveals a significant dependence on low-carbon sources, with these accounting for more than half—around 55%—of the total electricity produced. Wind energy leads the green charge, providing over a quarter of the electricity consumed, showcasing its critical role in Germany's clean energy landscape. Meanwhile, solar energy and biofuels contribute notably, with solar accounting for just over 14% and biofuels offering a bit more than 9%. Hydropower, although less dominant, still plays a part, supplying close to 5% of the electricity. On the other hand, fossil fuel sources remain substantial, with coal and gas together providing approximately 40% of electricity. This significant share highlights the ongoing challenge in transitioning fully to low-carbon sources. Net imports, as an external source, round out the picture with a modest 5% contribution, which indicates Germany's reliance on electricity beyond its borders.
Suggestions
Germany can enhance its low-carbon electricity generation by concentrating on expanding its wind and solar infrastructures, which are already substantial contributors to its energy mix. Learning from countries with successful nuclear programs like France and Slovakia, which derive 68% and 62% of their electricity from nuclear energy respectively, could offer Germany a path to rapidly increasing its sustainable energy output. The extensive integration of nuclear energy within these countries' electricity supplies demonstrates the potential for nuclear power to substantially lower carbon emissions and provide reliable, clean electricity. Additionally, Denmark's successful deployment of wind energy, which powers more than half of the country's electricity, can serve as a valuable model for Germany to further leverage its wind resources. By adopting best practices from these countries, Germany can significantly enhance its green energy portfolio, cut down further on fossil fuel dependency, and reduce the impacts of climate change and air pollution.
History
Historically, Germany's journey towards low-carbon electricity has seen significant milestones and challenges. In the late 1970s to mid-1980s, nuclear energy surged, with significant increments recorded in 1977, 1984, and 1985. However, starting in the late 2000s, Germany experienced a major decline in nuclear-generated electricity, exacerbated by substantial cuts in years like 2007 and 2011, marking a clear retreat from this clean energy source. Notwithstanding, wind and solar energy have shown consistent advancements. Particularly in the 2010s and early 2020s, wind energy saw major leaps, notably in 2011, 2015, and 2017, contributing significantly to the low-carbon agenda. Solar energy made significant strides too, particularly highlighted by a notable increase in 2022. While Germany's efforts in harnessing wind and solar are commendable, the historical reduction in nuclear energy generation underscores a critical need to reconsider and potentially renew its role in achieving a truly sustainable energy future.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.