Germany's electricity now derives over half from renewable energy sources
In the first half of 2020, Germany experienced a significant shift in its electricity production and consumption patterns. Compared to the same period in 2019, the share of electricity from renewable sources increased dramatically, accounting for 51.8% of the total electricity production - an increase of 8.4 percentage points.
This surge in renewable energy was driven by several factors. Solar power generation increased by 9.9%, while wind power saw the highest increase of +12.9%. As a result, wind power became the most important energy source for domestic electricity generation, accounting for 29% of the electricity fed into the grid. The first quarter of 2020 was particularly windy, contributing to this rise. The sunny spring also boosted solar electricity feed-in.
However, the increased reliance on renewable energy was accompanied by a significant decrease in the amount of electricity produced from conventional energy sources. The feed-in of coal power was significantly lower at -37.8% compared to the same period last year. This decline in coal usage, historically the dominant energy source during this period, was part of a broader trend towards increased use of renewables and natural gas.
Despite the increased production of renewable energy, Germany's electricity demand was not always met domestically. During calm or dark periods, electricity was imported to cover the demand. In the first half of 2020, electricity imports increased by 43.3%, totaling 25.7 billion kilowatt-hours. France was the main import country, supplying 8.7 billion kilowatt-hours.
Interestingly, more electricity was still exported from Germany than imported, but the amount of exported electricity decreased by 11.6% in the first half of 2020, totaling 33.6 billion kilowatt-hours. The decreasing share of domestic feed-in from base load-capable power plants, primarily using coal, nuclear power, and natural gas, was the main reason for the increase in electricity imports.
Overall, the amount of electricity produced in Germany decreased by almost ten percent due to the coronavirus pandemic. Despite the challenges, Germany continues to make strides towards a more sustainable energy future, with renewable sources playing an increasingly important role in its electricity production.
