The Digester
general

Germany considers ramping up coal to avert energy crisis

Facing risks to gas supplies and high power prices, Berlin is weighing temporary increases in coal-fired generation as a contingency to secure electricity this winter.

Mar 27th 2026 · Germany

Insights

  • The government is evaluating temporary increases in coal-fired power generation to prevent winter electricity shortfalls.
  • Concerns over gas supplies and rising energy prices are driving the contingency planning.
  • Any move to boost coal output would conflict with Germany's climate commitments and face political and EU scrutiny.
  • Officials frame coal as an emergency, short-term option while alternative supply and demand measures are pursued.

Sources