IHK-NRW criticizes NRW state government because of too slow energy transition

IHK-NRW criticizes NRW state government because of too slow energy transition

Title: Industrial and commerce chambers see deficits in energy transition in NRW

Düsseldorf-The chambers of industry and commerce in North Rhine-Westphalia criticize the slow pace of the energy transition in view of the decided coal phase-out until 2030. According to the IHK NRW President Ralf Stoffels, the state government has no clear strategy to ensure energy supply in the medium term. Stoffels warned of a de -industrialization that has already started and emphasized that the country had to act now.

In order to develop specific recommendations for the state government, the 16 chambers have commissioned a study at the Energy Economic Institute of the University of Cologne (EWI). According to this, an accelerated expansion of wind power and PV open space systems is necessary. In addition, up to eight hydrogen -capable gas power plants in NRW are required to ensure the energy supply after the coal exit.

Another point that Stoffels appealed is the possibility of direct contracts from industry with operators of wind and solar power plants in order to obtain competitive electricity prices. Such “electricity partnerships” are currently not allowed. Stoffels emphasized that this could also benefit from the middle class from significantly lower electricity prices.

The demands of the chambers of industry and commerce underline the importance of a clear strategy on the part of the state government in order to ensure energy requirements in North Rhine-Westphalia even after the coal phase-out. It remains to be seen how political decision -makers will react to the criticism.

Photo: wind turbine and shovel wheel excavator (archive), via DTS news agency
Photo/Source: DTS