Energy and Resources
Energy security: a strategic necessity
A secure supply of energy and raw materials is a basic prerequisite for prosperity and growth in Germany and Europe. The global demand for energy is rising and the World Energy Council expects primary energy consumption to have doubled by 2050.
A broad energy mix is essential for energy security. This means that fossil, regenerative and nuclear energy sources must all be used in order to reduce the risks associated with securing supply and to avoid excessive dependence on any one source of energy. The BDI thus advocates a consistent overall concept on energy policy. It makes sense to extend the operational life span of nuclear power plants in order to lower costs and protect the environment. Natural gas will certainly not be able to fill the gap created if nuclear power is phased out, nor can it serve as an alternative to coal.
A reliable energy supply requires modern facilities and energy grids. The 2008 monitoring report produced by the Federal Ministry of Economics warns of a possible energy gap if an insufficient number of power stations and power lines are installed. The government and the business community must make a concerted effort to improve general acceptance of adequate investments in power stations and electricity and gas grids.
The EU strategy for non-energy raw materials, which was advocated by the BDI and devised by the Commission in 2008, is an important supplement to Germany’s own commodities strategy. The Federal Government and the Commission must push to reduce trade barriers for raw materials. At the same time, conditions for producing and using primary and secondary raw materials must be improved.
