The German government knows that a progressive climate policy is vital for a healthy economy. It leads to economic growth, employment, industrial innovation and greenhouse gas emission reductions. To achieve a low carbon growth path, Germany has set itself a set of ambitious climate and energy goals, which exceed those of the E.U.

A 40% reduction in Green House Gas emissions by 2020 compared to 1990 levels. Renewable energy will provide 18 percent of final energy consumption (35 percent renewable energy in electricity generation by 2020). Energy efficiency will be doubled by 2020 compared to 1990 levels (this equals a 3 percent increase p.a.). Cogeneration (combined heat and power or CHP) will generate 25 percent of electricity by 2020. Renewable energies will provide for a 14 percent share in heat supply by 2020.

Germany has already met its 21 percent Kyoto emissions reductions target and in 2009, it emitted 28 percent less than in 1990.

How is Germany achieving these goals?

1. Electricity: Germany's Feed-in Tariff System (EEG)

2. Heating and Cooling

3. Energy Efficiency

Resource: http://www.southafrica.diplo.de/Vertretung/suedafrika/en/08__Science__Environment/Environment__Climate/Climate__policy__overview.html

8th paper on 4th month: The improvement of Germany to become World's Most energy-efficient country