How can public acceptance of utility projects be increased? Policymakers want to allow citizens to invest in such projects, but the focus is insufficient. Citizens want more than just financial benefits. By Craig Morris.
Year: 2016
Global energy transition conference bigger than ever
On Thursday and Friday last week, the German Foreign Office invited dignitaries, business people, and the press to the second Berlin Energy Transition Dialogue. The event was roughly 50 percent larger than in the previous year. And once again, it revealed that not all decision-makers are on the same page when it comes to the global energy transition. Craig Morris explains.
German coal is worthless
Vattenfall has failed to find a buyer for its coal assets in Germany. The focus is now on alternative models, such as a fund to protect workers. Craig Morris explains.
In Poland: A new government, same thorny old question
The first months after the Polish elections show that the new government will postpone important decisions about mining in Poland. Renewable energy may pay the price for this delay. Michal Olszewski takes a look.
Berta Cáceres and her fight against a mega hydropower project
One of Honduras’ most powerful voices for indigenous rights and environmental issues was murdered last week. Her assassination is no isolated case. Lillian Sol Cueva explains.
German retail power rate stable as share of renewables increases
For the past four years, the average retail power rate in Germany has been stable, even though the share of renewable electricity rose from nearly 25 percent to 32.5 percent. Clearly, renewables are now so competitive that fast growth no longer has a major cost impact – not even in Germany. Craig Morris explains.
Did French officials downplay nuclear incident? Is French media now?
Last week, German media reported that the shutdown of a reactor in Fessenheim, France, should have been classified at a level of greater danger. While the German media focus on the event itself, French media have turned the issue into a “he said, she said” dispute. The coverage reveals the tradition of transparency in Germany – and the lack thereof in France. By Craig Morris.
What will the nuclear phase-in eventually cost Germany?
For months, Germany has been debating how to cover the cost of the country’s nuclear waste repositories. Just when you think an agreement has been reached, more proposals are put on the table. Craig Morris explains.
The WTO Just Ruled Against India’s Booming Solar Program
India’s solar capacity grew rapidly, but the WTO agreed to a ruling against the country’s ambitious solar program.
It’s time to decrease energy consumption in Mexican buildings
In Mexico, energy consumption in buildings are still very high. Lillian Sol Cueva shows how two sets of measures could considerably reduce Mexico’s energy consumption.