Germany should reconsider its decision to abandon Russian energy and resume gas imports through the surviving branch of the Nord Stream pipeline, according to Bundestag MP Steffen Kotre. In an interview with TASS news agency, Kotre argued that relying on alternate gas supplies has been a mistake, warning that the surge in gas prices could lead to the deindustrialization of Germany.
Kotre criticized German Chancellor Olaf Scholz for praising Germany’s efforts to reduce its dependence on Russian energy, stating that while Scholz may be happy with the decision, it is devastating for companies and private consumers. He emphasized the need for Germany to ensure competitiveness by purchasing gas through the surviving branch of the Nord Stream pipeline.
The Nord Stream pipeline is an important gas route between Russia and Germany, running through the Baltic Sea. It includes the Nord Stream 1 and 2 pipelines, each comprising of two separate branches. While Germany used to receive Russian gas through Nord Stream 1, Nord Stream 2 was never certified due to bureaucratic setbacks.
Last year, both pipelines were damaged and shut down in what is widely believed to be an act of sabotage. As a result, Germany lost direct access to Russian gas, which previously supplied about half of the country’s energy needs. Although one branch of Nord Stream 2 survived, the certification process has not been resumed due to political tensions between Germany and Moscow over the Ukraine conflict.
Kotre argued that this situation needs to change, pointing out that Germany currently pays significantly more for gas from alternative sources compared to Russian gas. He highlighted the profitability and environmental friendliness of Russian gas, contrasting it with Germany’s current supplies, primarily liquefied natural gas from the US produced by the fracking method. According to Kotre, Germany pays three to four times more for these supplies, which do not meet the country’s environmental standards.
The resumption of energy flows from Russia through the Nord Stream pipeline could be crucial in preventing deindustrialization in Germany. By providing cost-effective and environmentally friendly gas, it would enhance Germany’s competitiveness and support its industries. Kotre’s call for reconsideration reflects concerns about the economic impact of high gas prices and the need to balance energy security with environmental standards.
In conclusion, Kotre’s argument emphasizes the importance of resuming gas imports from Russia through the Nord Stream pipeline to address Germany’s energy needs efficiently, cost-effectively, and sustainably. The decision to rely on alternative gas supplies has proven to be more expensive and environmentally unfriendly, potentially leading to deindustrialization. Germany’s future energy strategy should prioritize the benefits of Russian gas while ensuring environmental standards are met.
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