© Turkish Presidency of the G20 (2015)
Developing energy markets, meeting global climate targets
"Renewable energy and energy efficiency make important contributions to a sustainable energy supply," stressed State Secretary Beckmeyer at the two-day G20 energy ministerial. "The countries represented in the G20 have a major influence on the development of the international energy markets and the attainment of the global climate targets. We therefore welcome the fact that these aspects are being further strengthened in the G20 context, and we are feeding in Germany’s experience with the energy transition."
For a sustainable energy supply - also at international level
The core objectives of Germany’s energy transition are important for every country which wishes to have a sustainable supply of energy. This particularly includes the expansion of renewable energy and the improvement of energy efficiency. The reduction in subsidies for fossil fuels, as decided by the G20, is very important, since such subsidies create false incentives for wasteful consumption and inhibit investment in the energy sector.
The focus of the two-day meeting under the Turkish presidency was on better access to energy, particularly for Sub-Saharan Africa, and the wider use of renewable energy. Plans for work were adopted as a basis for future cooperation in both fields in the G20 context. Another key issue was the implementation of the Energy Efficiency Action Plan, which had been adopted by the G20 states at their last meeting in Brisbane, Australia in November 2014.
The abbreviation "G20" stands for "Group of 20". Since 2009, it has been the premier forum for international economic cooperation between the leading advanced and emerging economies. Its members represent around two-thirds of the world’s population. Also, the G20 accounts for 80 per cent of global GDP and three-quarters of the world’s trade.