The leader of the German state of Saxony, Minister-President Michael Kretschmer, has advocated for the repair of the Nord Stream 1 natural gas pipeline that was ruptured in an underwater explosion last September. Kretschmer emphasized that if action is not taken soon, sea water will irreparably damage the conduit. In an interview with Germany’s WirtschaftsWoche magazine, Kretschmer highlighted the importance of restoring the pipeline, stating that it could secure Germany’s energy supply in the next five to ten years.
Kretschmer argued that repairing the pipeline is a necessary step to secure Germany’s energy imports. He recognized that the pipeline’s restoration would involve removing water, sealing it, and ensuring its long-term security. Kretschmer stressed that repairing the pipeline is “the most normal thing in the world,” emphasizing the need to safeguard Germany’s energy supply and keep options open for the future.
The minister-president acknowledged the uncertainties surrounding energy supply in the coming decade. He stated that it is crucial for politicians to consider all possibilities to ensure a sustainable energy future. Kretschmer suggested that maintaining flexibility and exploring different options aligns with smart political leadership.
The call for urgent action echoes concerns raised by Economy Minister Robert Habeck in June. He warned that Germany might need to reduce or shut down certain industrial capacities if deliveries of Russian natural gas through Ukraine cease next year. Habeck urged Berlin not to underestimate the economic risks associated with potential energy shortages. Germany’s reliance on imported electricity poses a significant challenge, particularly given the dependence of other EU member states like Austria, Slovakia, Italy, and Hungary on Russian gas.
The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia has further complicated the situation. The current contract for gas transit to Europe, set to expire at the end of 2024, remains uncertain. Habeck highlighted that while Germany has reduced its reliance on Russian energy, other EU countries still heavily depend on Russian gas. In the event of a disruption in supplies from Russia, Germany would be obligated to provide assistance under the EU’s gas-sharing rules, exacerbating challenges for domestic industrial consumers.
The destruction of the Nord Stream 1 gas pipeline and one leg of Nord Stream 2 in a series of near-simultaneous blasts off the Danish island of Bornholm in September last year raised questions about the security and reliability of energy infrastructure. Veteran US journalist Seymour Hersh claimed in February of this year that the United States was responsible for the sabotage. Additionally, reports in the German media have suggested the potential involvement of the Ukrainian secret service in the pipeline’s destruction.
Given the complexities and risks associated with energy supply, the restoration of the Nord Stream 1 natural gas pipeline becomes a critical priority. Saxony’s minister-president, Michael Kretschmer, has emphasized the long-term security benefits of repairing the pipeline. By ensuring a stable energy supply, Germany can mitigate potential economic risks and provide assistance to other EU member states. As uncertainties persist in the energy sector, taking decisive action now will pave the way for a sustainable and reliable energy future.
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