Germany in the process of achieving climate neutrality. Comparative analysis for the period 2014–2023 with particular emphasis on renewable energy

Abstract

Background: This paper examines the impact of Germany`s efforts to achieve climate neutrality. This country was chosen because it is largely responsible for climate policy implemented at the European level, This article analyzes the legal framework of climate policy, both at EU level and in Germany, the projected costs of climate policy and the initial effects of these measures.
Research purpose: The aim of this article is to examine whether Germany can be considered an example of a country consistently pursuing a climate policy and whether it achieves better results than other European Union countries. This article seeks to answer the following research questions: What are the expected costs that Germany will have to incur to achieve these goals? Does German society accept the sacrifices associated with such a policy? Is Germany achieving better results in pursuing its climate policy goals than its neighbouring countries – Poland and France?
Methods: The study utilized comparative statistical analysis based on four selected indicators related to climate neutrality for the period 2014 – 2023. There were compared with similar results achieved by two other countries – France and Poland – and with the EU average.
Conclusions: Germany is among the EU countries achieving above average results in achieving climate neutrality. In this respect, Germany achieves better results than its neighboring countries – Poland and Germany. Climate policy enjoys strong support in this country, both among the public and in political party platforms. Despite this, public sentiment has deteriorated in recent years, partly due to the energy crises and rising energy prices.