Today, Friday, Germany has decided to close its last coal power plant by 2038. The proposal for phasing out coal power in Germany has been debated for a long time and has been criticized from several directions. Environmental activists say it is not enough at the same time as other critics say it is a waste of tax money.

- The coal days are counted in Germany, says Germany's Environment Minister Svenja Schulze reports to the AP.

At the same time, Greenpeace and other environmental groups stated in a manifestation today that the German plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is too slow and will not suffice to live up to what is stated in the climate goals of the Paris Treaty.

"Courageously"

Climate scientist Deliang Chen, professor of physical meteorology at the University of Gothenburg.

Deliang Chen, professor of physical meteorology at the University of Gothenburg, has 20 years of experience working in the IPCC, the UN Scientific Climate Panel. He says the decision is positive, but also courageous by Germany.

- If they have now made the decision, I think it is quite scientifically based, then there are calculations that say they can do it - but it will be tough. The decision to close the German nuclear power has not been painless, he tells SVT.

Germany is working to phase out its nuclear power by 2022.

"Shows leadership"

Deliang Chen believes that the restructuring resulting from the removal of an energy source is the biggest challenge.

- But I think they are prepared to do it. Such a definite ambition is needed. Germany is one of the countries internationally showing leadership, and it is needed. For example, the United States is not showing any leadership on this issue, he says, and continues: 

- Much of this policy is decided at the national level and this shows the way for Europe. Europe, in turn, can be a major factor at the global level.

Germany's decision to switch from coal power to other energy sources by 2038 is estimated to cost EUR 40 billion.