Germany coal power proposal: CDU seeks continuous operation to lower energy costs

Sepp Müller, deputy leader of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, has proposed returning German coal-fired power plants to continuous operation to combat high gas prices. Currently, these plants are primarily used as reserves during periods of low wind and solar energy production.

Müller argues that keeping coal plants running constantly could lower electricity prices and reduce reliance on expensive gas, helping to fill gas storage facilities for the winter. He noted that geopolitical tensions involving Iran have driven up gas costs. He suggested that coal should remain in use until gas-fired power plants with comparable capacity are completed, which is expected around 2030 or 2031. Müller estimates this move could save the German economy hundreds of millions of euros annually.

The proposal has faced immediate opposition from the SPD, a coalition partner. SPD energy policy spokesperson Nina Scheer rejected the idea, stating that fossil fuel surpluses from coal reserves do not align with current physical or price requirements and could hinder the expansion of renewable energies and storage capacities.