Germany's bet on diversifying energy sources away from US dependence

Germany is making strategic decisions to reduce its exposure to a single energy supply source. The debate over which types of energy the European country should prioritize has become particularly urgent, especially given concerns about excessive dependence on liquefied natural gas from the United States.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz is leading this initiative through a diplomatic tour of the Middle East, accompanied by German business leaders. His itinerary includes meetings in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, where he will explore options to strengthen alternative energy sources and build strategic alliances with key producers.

A strategic trip to reduce dependence on North American LNG

The concern over dependence on U.S. liquefied natural gas is not trivial. Susanne Nies, energy expert at the Helmholtz Center for Research in Berlin, points out that this vulnerability exposes Germany to multiple risks. “Political developments in the United States can significantly affect energy availability in Europe,” warns the expert, also highlighting the dangers of geopolitical blackmail.

This situation presents an unprecedented challenge for Europe’s largest economy, which must ensure energy security without compromising its economic stability.

Experts warn of new geopolitical risks

German experts agree that switching suppliers without changing the fundamental energy structure would be insufficient. Claudia Kemfert, head of the Department of Energy, Transport, and Environment at the German Institute for Economic Research, emphasizes that high dependence on any single source creates risks not only geopolitically but also in terms of price volatility.

The dangers of this vulnerability go beyond economics. The risk of external pressures and market uncertainty pose a constant threat to long-term German industrial planning.

Alternative energy options on the European horizon

What options does Germany have to build a more resilient energy profile? Experts suggest a multidimensional approach that includes increasing gas supplies via pipelines from Norway and diversifying towards liquefied natural gas from alternative suppliers such as Canada and Australia.

However, Kemfert warns that the true solution is not simply changing supplier countries. The expert proposes that Germany should take advantage of this situation to reduce its overall dependence on fossil fuels, adopting a more ambitious energy transition strategy that includes greater investment in renewable energies.

Germany’s search for new types of energy and suppliers reflects a broader reality: in the 21st century, energy security is synonymous with national security and economic stability. Diversification is not a luxury but a strategic necessity for Europe.