Workshop organised by the Heinrich Böll Foundation at the EGP Council in Madrid
When: Saturday, 11 May, 18.00-19.30
Where: NH Eurobuilding, Calle Padre Damián 23, 28036 Madrid, Spain (Room "Paris")
Speakers: Rebecca Harms, Co-President of the Green Group in the European Parliament, Eva van de Rakt, Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung Czech Republic; Bastian Hermisson, Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union, Agnieszka Grzybek, Polish Greens Zieloni
In 2013, two years after the devastating Fukushima disaster, the German “Energiewende” is mapped out and is already transforming German energy policy. The discussion on impacts has, however, almost only been held within national borders. The consequential turnaround in Germany is seen by its neighbors as partly irrational or even populist, and uncontrollable effects for the European energy supply are feared. Others praise the bold political move and are impressed with this clear commitment to Renewables. But the lack of a factual and mutual debate so far leads to numerous myths and fears with regard to the German Energy Transition, which shows that a constructive dialogue between all involved parties on either side of the border is crucial.
At the same time, in the mid and long term, Germany will exhaust its national limits when expanding its shares of renewables beyond its national capacities. Thus, the Energy Transition will also be a showcase for the interdependencies and necessary interlinkages in the European energy landscape. Thus, a constructive exchange on challenges and opportunities of the German Energy Transition is indispensable for an effective European approach to the issue. Furthermore, it is an important contribution to a sustainable energy future in and for Europe.
During this workshop we would like to discuss with you how the German Energy Transition is debated in your respective countries, which opportunities lie in cross-border and European cooperation, and how Green actors could approach these issues.
For more information on the German Energy Transition, you can also have a look at our website: http://energytransition.de/
