German coalition prioritizes climate change mitigation efforts to a lesser degree
The recently formed German government, led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz of the Christian Democrats (CDU/CSU), has unveiled its policies, sparking a wave of reactions from various sectors. While the coalition contract was concluded on 9 April 2025, paving the way for the partners to take office in May, concerns about the government's commitment to climate protection have been raised.
Environmental Action Germany (DUH), a Berlin-based NGO, is among the critics, claiming that the new government's policies could set back Germany's progress in areas like buildings and transportation, potentially causing the country to fall short of meeting its climate goals. The NGO's concern stems from the government's decision to consider building up to 20 GW of gas power plant capacity by 2030, with the aim of installing carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology.
The new government's stance on climate protection was also highlighted during the campaign, with Chancellor Merz stating that it is not a top priority for his administration. This statement has raised eyebrows among climate activists, such as Fridays for Future, who criticise the government's plans to expand and promote new fossil fuel infrastructure, fearing that it will make Germany dependent on fossil fuels and strengthen autocrats like Russia.
However, the new government has made some positive moves. It intends to continue Germany's participation in Europe's most potent climate tool: the emissions trading scheme, known as EU ETS. Additionally, the government will continue to build out the necessary power grid, including overhead lines, to facilitate the expansion of renewable energy.
One of the most significant decisions made by the new government is the continuation of the 'Germany ticket', a monthly 58-euro pass for all local connections, until 2029. This decision is aimed at promoting sustainable transportation and reducing carbon emissions in the sector. However, the government is not addressing the years of negligent transportation policies that make the sector Germany's emissions laggard.
Another contentious issue is the new government's stance on a wealth tax on the super-rich, which the SPD proposes to finance social and climate protection measures. The CDU/CSU opposes such tax increases, arguing against burdening the middle class and rejecting additional taxes on high incomes and wealth, which would limit funds available for climate protection and social spending.
The new government's plans to lower electricity prices by at least five cents per kilowatt-hour have also been met with criticism. While this move aims to make electricity more affordable, it does not address the issue of energy efficiency and lowering energy consumption, which are crucial for reducing carbon emissions.
Despite these criticisms, the 2035 EU combustion engine phase-out survived the coalition negotiations unscathed, ensuring that Germany remains on track to phase out combustion engines in the coming years.
As the new German government settles into office, it remains to be seen how it will address the challenges and criticisms surrounding its climate policies. One thing is certain: the future of climate protection in Germany will be a topic of ongoing debate and scrutiny.
