The German government wants to temporarily keep additional coal-fired power plants on stand-by for almost two years to stave off a possible electricity shortage in case natural gas supplies from Russia are suddenly reduced, officials say.
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Germany is trying to wean itself off Russian gas due to the war in Ukraine and expects to finish doing so in 2024.
But the government fears that Russia might cut off supplies suddenly in response to the economic sanctions imposed on Russia by some countries, including Germany.
A draft law agreed by cabinet would ensure that coal-fired plants previously scheduled for closure remain in functional condition.
Germany already has several other coal and oil-fired plants on stand-by that can be activated in an emergency.
Government spokeswoman Christiane Hoffmann said the decision was important "in light of the Russian attack on Ukraine and the tense situation on the energy markets".
"The goal of completing the phase-out of coal in Germany ideally by 2030, and the climate targets, remain in place," she said.
Coal is still Germany's most important energy source for electricity production but the share of renewable energies has increased recently as the country ponders ways to produce enough power without breaching climate goals.
with reporting from DPA
Australian Associated Press
