Emissions Trading: CO2 emissions fall in 2011 despite strong economy

Nuclear phase-out has apparently been compensated for

At 450 million tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, 1,640 power generation and industrial facilities required to participate in emissions trading in Germany emitted approximately one percent less climate-damaging CO2 in 2011 than in 2010. Despite a very strong economy and nuclear phase-out, the reduction of CO2 emissions has continued since 2008. According to preliminary calculations, CO2 emissions were especially reduced in the energy sector compared to 2010. In this sector, emission reductions are between two percent in large combustion facilities and six percent in smaller combustion facilities.

Overall, CO₂ emissions of 450 million tons are below the 452.8 million ton annual German emission cap of the second trading period. "In view of the strong German economic growth of about three percent in 2011 it is clear that the emissions trading sector has also contributed to improving carbon intensity. This trend is a hopeful sign for the third trading period 2013-2020 and shows the margin for a possible adjustment of the European climate goals" said Jochen Flasbarth, President of the Federal Environment Agency. "At the same time the nuclear phase-out started in March 2011 has had no obvious adverse effects on the CO₂ emissions in Germany" continued Flasbarth. With a decline in CO₂ emissions of around one percent, the CO₂ emission reduction path chosen in the second trading period continues in 2011.

Facility operators have until 4/30/2012 to submit the allowances to compensate for their actual emissions. The German Emissions Trading Authority (DEHSt) is currently reviewing the 2011 emission reports and will publish a detailed analysis of the results on May 15, 2012.

The German Emissions Trading Authority (DEHSt)

The German Emissions Trading Authority at the Federal Environment Agency is the national authority for the implementation of the European emissions trading system for both stationary facilities and aviation. Her responsibilities include the allotment and issuance of allowances, reviewing the emission reports and the management of the Emissions Trading Registry. It is also responsible for managing the project-based Joint Implementation and Clean Development mechanisms.