Germany considers extending coal power amid rising gas prices

Germany is reconsidering its coal phase-out plans as global gas price increases make switching back to lignite financially appealing.

• Chancellor Friedrich Merz said he is not prepared to jeopardise German industry with unrealistic coal phase-out plans.
• A parliamentary committee established in March is studying whether six hard coal power stations should resume regular production instead of being used only as backup.
• The government must decide this year whether the 2030 lignite phase-out deadline will be maintained or if capacity may be kept as a strategic reserve.
• Germany imports 95% of its natural gas supplies while having the largest lignite reserves in Europe and being entirely self-sufficient in the fuel.