Germany publishes roadmap to phase out fossil fuels by 2045

23 September 2026 – Today, Germany is publishing its national roadmap to phase out coal, oil, and gas by 2045. 

In response, Laurie Van Der Burg, Public Finance lead at Oil Change International, said: 

“Germany deserves credit for publishing a national roadmap that commits to a fossil fuel phaseout. But Germany’s government’s efforts to play the role of climate leader are not commensurate with the reality of the crisis, or its responsibility as a wealthy, historic emitter.

“Germany’s 2045 phaseout date is far too late, and is an insult to equity when it comes to a fair global energy transition. Germany also has a track record of breaking international climate promises. Since joining the Clean Energy Transition Partnership to end international public finance for fossil fuels, Germany has approved $1.5 billion in fossil fuel finance, making it the second largest violator of the agreement behind Italy. Now, the government plans to further weaken its export finance policy, while other countries have successfully brought down international fossil fuel finance by 78%.

“If Germany is serious about economic prosperity, energy security and affordability it should end its fossil fuel finance, strengthen its national roadmap, and redirect public money toward a resilient and affordable renewable energy future.

“On the road to COP31, governments around the world must put forward stronger national roadmaps, with rich countries moving first and fastest, delivering the climate finance they owe to the Global South and supporting the financial system reform needed to enable the transition. Country leaders face a clear choice: plan for a fair fossil fuel phaseout now, or be trapped in an outdated, volatile and destructive energy system.”

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