East's Equality in New Gas Power Stations: No Lack for the Eastern Sector
Saxony's Economics Minister, Dirk Panter (SPD), has voiced concerns over the federal government's plan to prioritise the construction of new gas-fired power plants in southern Germany. Panter argues that this focus systematically disadvantages eastern German regions, particularly the coal-dependent area of Lusatia.
The federal government's coalition agreement plans the construction of up to 20 gigawatts of gas power plant capacity by 2030, with state funding for these power plants. These power plants are intended to step in when electricity demand cannot be met by renewable energies, such as during "dark doldrums" with no sun or wind.
However, Panter insists that a "southern bonus" ignores the need for a fair and balanced energy policy that supports structural transformation in eastern Germany, leveraging existing infrastructure and expertise there. He emphasises that these plants should not just be located where it’s politically favoured but where they address transformation burdens, regional needs, and technical capacity.
Panter is not asking for a location advantage, but for a fair distribution and planning security in the construction of new gas power plants. He advocates that Lusatia and other eastern regions must be part of Germany’s energy future, both in conventional gas power and in hydrogen-ready infrastructure, reinforcing the region's economic and structural renewal after coal phaseout.
The visit to the Braunkohlekraftwerk Schwarze Pumpe in southern Brandenburg by Federal Minister Katharina Reiche is scheduled for her summer tour on Monday. This power plant, like many in eastern Germany, could play a crucial role in the establishment of a sustainable hydrogen economy.
Panter's criticism comes as a call for equity and economic opportunity for eastern Germany in the federal gas power plant rollout, countering the southern focus that risks deepening regional disparities in energy transition and economic development. The goal of fair structural change in coal regions, particularly in Lusatia, could be endangered by this prioritisation.
In summary, Panter's concerns focus on fair distribution and planning security, rather than seeking a location advantage. He urges the federal government to consider existing infrastructure, available land, specialist expertise, and the special transformation burdens of the eastern German coal regions in the distribution of new gas power plants. This approach would ensure a balanced and equitable energy policy for all regions of Germany.
[1] Saxony's Economics Minister Dirk Panter calls for fair distribution of new gas power plants [2] Dirk Panter: Lusatia must be part of the federal government's solution for supply security
[3] In energy policy and finance, a balanced approach is crucial for regional parity, as emphasized by Dirk Panter.
