Bluer skies: Germany’s path towards a renewable future
Date
2013
Authors
Macklin, Hannah
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Publisher
Bachelor of Commerce Best Business Research Papers
Abstract
This research paper’s objective is to evaluate Germany’s Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG), and outline how the nation can achieve its goals. It summarizes the changes Germany is making in order to phase out nuclear energy, and what consequences these may have. In addition, this paper evaluates Germany’s efforts to shut down nuclear energy while still managing to increase renewable power generation. Focusing on Wind and Solar power generation, this paper describes the initiatives that Germany is taking to successfully reach its goals, and what challenges they are facing. It uses the Natural Step Framework to describe the EEG and outlines three main focus areas that need to be considered when moving forward. These include increasing energy efficiency, reducing carbon emissions in all sectors, and bridging the gap after removing nuclear energy and increasing storage capacity to ensure a stable energy sector using renewable sources. A short survey taken by university students in Cologne indicates a preference towards investing in renewable energies. After reviewing all of these aspects, the results indicate that Germany is currently successful in staying on schedule with their Renewable Energy Sources Act, and will most likely be able to achieve its goals, perhaps even sooner than planned.
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Citation
Macklin, H. (2013). Bluer skies: Germany’s path towards a renewable future. Bachelor of Commerce Best Business Research Papers, 6, 39–49.