Renewable Energy Sources Act and its Effect on the German Wind Energy Industry: Lessons for the U.S.

Germany has become relatively well known for its advanced renewable energy industry and understanding why could be useful for other developed countries that could benefit equally from such an industry. Closer examination of the German case shows that this success is the result of a landmark energy law that prioritizes renewable energy. Among the various types of renewable energy, wind power has been particularly successful in Germany as a result of this law. This paper looks closely at this law and outlines the principal elements of it that play a role in fostering renewable energy development. In addition to examining what has made this industry a success, the ways in which it has been successful are also explored, from emission reductions to decreased reliance on energy imports to the creation of jobs. Much of what has resulted from this law is not specific to the German case and there is strong evidence to conclude that a similar law would have similar results here in the United States. The purpose of this paper, however, is not to outline a detailed plan for importing this legal mechanism to the US, but rather to show how such a mechanism works. Further work must be done to more exactly apply this type of law to the United States’ energy sector.