Germany evaluates using coal reserves to lower electricity prices

The German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs is examining the possibility of increasing the use of coal-fired power plants to mitigate high electricity prices. The proposal focuses on plants that currently serve as reserves and are only activated during energy shortages.

Government spokesperson Stefan Kornelius noted that the issue is not currently on the immediate agenda, citing technical, economic, and European legal complexities. Officials emphasized that because these plants are relatively old and inefficient, any increased use must be proven to have a positive impact on lowering energy costs.

The discussion follows suggestions from Sepp Müller, a deputy leader of the CDU parliamentary group, who argued that coal plants should remain operational until gas-fired plants of comparable capacity are completed, expected around 2030 or 2031. While Germany maintains its commitment to phase out coal production by 2038 in favor of renewables and gas, the rising cost of energy has brought the use of reserve capacity back into political debate.