The Federal Government of Germany introduced the 2023 Climate Protection Programme to address a significant climate protection gap of 1.1 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalents by 2030, with a reduction target of 65% of all greenhouse gases compared to 1990 levels. The program encompasses various legislative amendments aimed at achieving these goals. Here's a breakdown:
Amendment to the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG 2023):
Aims to increase the share of renewable energies in gross electricity consumption to at least 80% by 2030.
Incorporates measures such as expanding wind and solar power by 80% by 2030, promoting electricity storage and power plants using green hydrogen, increasing remuneration for solar systems, facilitating the establishment of citizen energy companies, enhancing financial participation of municipalities in wind energy, and eliminating levies for electricity self-supply.
References the 1.5-degree path outlined in the Paris Climate Protection Agreement.
Amendment to the Onshore Wind Energy Act (WaLG):
Regulates area targets for designating wind energy areas, aiming for 1.4% of the federal area by the end of 2027 and 2% by the end of 2032.
Amendment to the Federal Nature Conservation Act (BNatSchG):
Aims to streamline the approval process for wind turbines while maintaining high environmental standards.
Recognizes wind turbine operation as being in the public interest, facilitating exemptions.
Simplifies the assessment of species protection exceptions and alternatives, particularly for repowering onshore wind turbines.
Amendment of the Building Energy Act (GEG):
Introduces mandatory requirements for installing climate-friendly heating systems in new homes, with at least 65% powered by renewable energy starting January 2024.
Allows existing heating systems to continue use with transition periods and exemptions.
Provides social compensation payments and a KfW subsidy program.
These amendments collectively aim to bridge the climate protection gap by up to 80%, aligning with Germany's climate targets and commitments under international agreements like the Paris Agreement.