Dubai: The German Pavilion is all set to open its doors to visitors in October, when Expo 2020 Dubai kicks off. And one of its main messages is Energiewende, or energy transition.
Here's a look at what that move means and why it's so important.
What is Energiewende?
Coined in the 1980s, the term 'Energiewende', which translates to energy transition, is an on-going shift in Germany; the country aims to be a nuclear-free, low-carbon economy. The transition focuses on renewable energy such as wind, photovoltaics and hydroelectricity. Through 'Energiewende', Germany aims to achieve 80 per cent energy from renewable resources by the year 2050. (In 2020, renewable sources met 46.3 per cent of Germany’s power consumption needs, utility industry association BDEW was quoted as saying by Reuters.)
Why is it important?
As part of Germany’s effort to provide a sustainable future for all, Energiewende has four important aims:
- to tackle climate change,
- to improve energy security,
- to eradicate nuclear power, and
- to optimise industrial growth.
What are the pros and cons?
While Energiewende is under constant scrutiny for its high costs, the transition has already started yielding benefits such as high employment opportunities and reduced costs of imported fuels. The future benefits of the shift include reduction of carbon footprint and a low-carbon future.
How does it work?
Energy is generated through renewable resources such as solar panels, wind turbines and through reservoir dams that generate hydroelectricity.
The German Pavilion aims to educate participants and visitors about the importance of sustainability through exhibitions on Energiewende throughout Expo 2020 Dubai, which runs from October 1, 2021, to March 31, 2022 .
-The writer is an intern with Gulf News.
