Fracking debate intensifies in Germany

But critics claim the controversial gas extraction method is rightfully banned in Germany, warning of pollution, and claiming it would not bolster the country’s energy independence. EurActiv Germany reports. ...

Whether it is extracted by fracking or imported, Germany will continue to rely on gas in the long-term, said Moritz Bonn, environmental and energy expert from the Centre for European Policy (CEP), speaking with EurActiv.de. “In the future, gas will be especially important for power generation – even after expansion of renewable energy sources,” he said. Because gas power plants are very flexible in terms of power generation, Bonn explained that they could be useful to fill gaps in supply. ...read more