Impacts of and Adaptation to Climate Change in the Electricity Sector in Germany and France

Abstract

The topic of this chapter is climate change adaptation options for the electricity sector in Germany and France. The impacts of weather and climate change on this sector are described first. Based on this, practical adaptation options are then specified for the better use of opportunities and minimizing the preventable risks in the energy industry. Since the impacts and possible adaptation measures need to be considered in regional and company-specific scales, the German energy company Energie Baden-Württemberg AG (EnBW) and the French company Electricité de France (EDF) are focused upon. The options for adaptation are distinguished between short- and medium-term measures on one hand, and long-term measures on the other. One short-term option for action is load management. By recognizing the changing consumer behaviors, both quantitatively and qualitatively, loads can be adjusted to the momentarily optimized generation of energy. An important medium-term option for action is research into impacts and adaptation. Identifying the impacts of climate change on the sector is essential, because even two companies’ susceptibility in the same industry can differ considerably. A long-term measure for adaptation is to produce a diverse range and design of power plants. While this strategy should be initiated for several reasons, the risks of climate change can be dispersed better, because every type of power generation is affected by climate change in its own specific way.