Germany has restarted one of its closed coal-fired power stations. The reason is the cold wave that the country is witnessing. Another reason is the interruption of Russian gas supplies. This measure represents a major setback for the government, which wants to combat pollution.
It is a brown coal power plant in the city of Janschwalde, 100 kilometers southeast of Berlin. Germany is experiencing its first cold wave this winter. The restart of the previously closed power plant should help meet energy needs.
The plant was closed in 2018. Last year, the German government gave the green light to restart it to prevent power issues during the winter months. This happened after the supply of gas from the Russian pipeline was stopped.
The renewed use represents a setback to the government’s plans to reduce harmful emissions. The goal is to keep price increases for consumers within limits during the heating season.
According to the station operator, the second spare station is ready for use. This can also be connected to the electricity grid within a short period of time.
Northern Europe was hit by a cold wave on Monday, with temperatures lower than usual for this time of year.