Germany has established a roadmap to transition away from fossil fuels by 2045, becoming the third country to publish such a plan following a COP28 commitment. Despite this goal, fossil fuels accounted for approximately 65% of Germany’s energy consumption in 2024. Oil comprised 36%, natural gas 24%, and coal 5% of this total.
Fossil fuels were responsible for over 83% of the country’s greenhouse gas emissions. Germany relies heavily on imports for these resources, acquiring 98% of its mineral oil, 95% of its natural gas, and all of its hard coal. In 2024, net fossil fuel imports incurred costs of around €76 billion.
The country aims to phase out coal by 2038, with a potential acceleration to 2035. Renewable energy met about 55% of gross electricity consumption in 2025, with a target of at least 80% by 2030. Emissions reductions are targeted at 65% from 1990 levels by 2030 and 88% by 2040, preceding a net-zero goal in 2045.
Source: Down To Earth