Germany Faces a Growing Power Gap as Delays Hit New Gas Projects

Germany has become one of Europe’s most expensive electricity markets.Photographer: Krisztian Bocsi/Bloomberg

Germany is heading toward a potential power shortfall of 10 to 24 gigawatts in 2030 during high-demand periods as it closes generation faster than it builds replacements — a gap analysts say has to be bridged.

The system now risks a longer reliance on coal. Demand is projected to climb as transport, heating and industry electrify, but nuclear plants have been closed, coal is being phased out and Germany still lacks a capacity market to replace backup supply. The country hasn’t built many non-renewable power plants recently, leaving few stations when wind and solar falter.