This requires backbone. From small cooperatives to established energy suppliers: Diversity among the owners of green power plants must be guaranteed so that everyone has the chance to actively shape the energy transition in their region. It is essential that no one is left behind who has previously taken other paths. The new and old energy industries must work together to meet the demands of the energy transition with a breath of fresh air.
Decentralization as a central goal
Decentralized energy supply is a cornerstone of the sustainable, green energy future. The energy transition must be supported and carried forward by local actors. Energy providers and municipal utilities should support citizens in implementing their energy transition projects and themselves create incentives for renewable energies on site. This must be the central objective for the rapid expansion of a renewable energy supply.
On site, municipal utilities in particular can be an important driver of the decentralized energy transition. They are strongly anchored in the region and perform far more tasks than just energy supply. These important players should make their energy procurement more and more green and invest in renewable energies locally.
Diversity of players as a pillar of the energy transition
Only an energy transition that is supported by citizens and is socially just and ecological will create acceptance. Energy providers, municipal utilities, citizen energy cooperatives, politicians and environmental associations must work together. After all, the energy transition is a joint task.
A study by the trend:research institute shows how important citizen energy is for the energy transition: private individuals in Germany own almost one third of the installed capacity for sustainable electricity production. The basis for acceptance and commitment to the expansion of renewable energies depends on the participation and investment opportunities of citizens, according to the study.
Thus, through the participation of the population, green power projects receive the necessary local support
This is essential for further dynamic expansion in Germany. Policymakers have a duty here. Be it for sector coupling, tenant electricity, the transformation of transport or the period after the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG): In many areas, reasonable framework conditions must be created under which all players can successfully participate in the energy transition.
With the 6th Energy Transition Forum in October, we offer all energy transition supporters the opportunity to exchange practical experiences, perspectives and ideas for a green (energy) future.
What Neil Armstrong said 50 years ago is still true today, albeit in a different context: "That's one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind." Because there's no such thing as an Earth 2.0. Therefore: Energy transition now!
