At the beginning of March, the environment ministers of Germany, France, and Poland will meet. The three countries have very different climate policies – but that is precisely where the opportunities lie. Together, they could make decisive progress in advancing Europe’s climate policy.
By Marion Guénard and Sylwia Andralojc-Bodych
At this turning point in history, the EU needs a comprehensive strategy for security, prosperity, and independence. Decarbonization and climate protection are effective levers for achieving this. Europe must move forward with determination.
By Jennifer Morgan
A mandatory green gas quota for the heating sector is set to form part of the German government’s amendment to the Building Energy Act (GEG). According to the Association of the Electrical and Digital Industry (ZVEI), the measure would undermine core elements of the heating transition, weaken Germany’s industrial competitiveness and dilute climate action efforts.
By Sebastian Treptow and Mark Becker-von Bredow
The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and the Federal Network Agency want to change the rules on grid connections and charges. The proposals create considerable uncertainty for investors. The ministry and the agency need to make improvements.
By Maximilian Uibeleisen
To remain competitive with China, Brussels is considering extending the free allocation of CO₂ allowances. But prolonging free permits will not halt the exodus of industry. What is needed instead is an industrial policy that consistently prioritizes investment in future technologies.
By Sabine Nallinger
Europe must stay the course toward a zero-emissions energy policy, regardless of pressure from the White House. Member states should present a united front against Donald Trump’s push to expand fossil fuels.
By Sean Casten
Germany’s Federal Administrative Court (BVerwG) has sent an unmistakable signal: statutory climate targets are legally enforceable, and the German government is obliged to comply with them. For companies, the ruling implies a tighter regulatory framework in the short term – but greater clarity and competitive advantages in the long run
By Gunther Dütsch
In Germany, more than five million people are unable to adequately heat their homes due to a lack of financial resources. Energy poverty is one of the most pressing problems in social policy. Yet there are instruments to combat it, which would also benefit the climate.
By Eva Maria Welskop-Deffaa
The EU Commission is apparently planning to reverse its previous decision to phase out the internal combustion engine. At first glance, this would appear to be a reasonable measure to support the car industry. But in the long term, it will lead to cost inefficiencies, increase Europe’s dependence on imports and damage the car industry even more.
By Beatrix Keim
Climate protection and justice belong together: Who bears the costs of the transformation, who benefits? In a society of growing inequality, we need fair burden sharing, targeted support and bold financing models.
By Michael Bloss and Rasmus Andresen
