Environment minister see the world going through an “energy revolution”
Electricity is expected to meet much more of the world’s energy needs, from cars and heating to industrial applications. Environment minister Carsten Schneider backs the new targets and sees opportunities for German firms.
Berlin (dpa) – Germany’s Federal Minister for the Environment Carsten Schneider believes the world is in the midst of an “energy revolution”. “With renewable energy, many countries – which have until now have not been able to – can now deliver energy in a fast, cost-effective and decentralised way,” Schneider said in an interview shortly before departing for the COP31 climate change conference in Antalya.
Schneider is backing energy efficiency targets proposed by the Turkish COP31 presidency, which aim to raise electricity’s share of global energy use from 20% now to 35% by 2035. Using electricity to power cars, factories and other sectors is considered a prerequisite to moving away from fuels which harm the climate. Globally, the trend is already moving in this direction: according to reports, renewables accounted for over 85% of new electricity capacity last year.
For Schneider, agreeing a target in this area will decide whether the 31st global climate conference can be considered a success. Alongside the positive effects on the climate, Schneider also sees economic opportunities for Germany. “Incidentally, Germany stands to benefit greatly if the world moves towards more electrification,” he said. “After all, it’s a sector in which we have excellent businesses with strong export track records.”
