Germany considers delaying coal phase-out as gas prices rise: What it means for climate goals

Germany, Europe's largest coal power user, is reconsidering its coal phase-out timeline after a jump in global gas prices. The country currently gets 20% of its electricity from coal and has pledged to stop by 2038, with lignite ending by 2030. However, high gas import costs and supply risks are pushing policymakers to debate keeping some coal plants running longer as backup. A parliamentary committee is studying whether six hard coal power stations currently used only for emergencies should operate continuously. The government must decide this year on the lignite 2030 deadline, and an August review may slow rather than accelerate the phase-out. The outcome will affect Germany's emissions trajectory and its credibility as a climate leader.