Bart de Looze

Framing Fossil Fuels: A case study of the German LNG Terminals

The increasing visibility of climate change consequences has led countries worldwide to intensify efforts to phase out fossil fuels from their energy mix. However, recent geopolitical events, specifically Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, have prompted some countries to reassess these efforts due to soaring global energy prices. The European Union, significantly reliant on Russian energy, has been directly impacted. In response to the dual challenges of reducing dependency on Russian energy and managing supply cuts, countries have been searching for alternative sources. Germany, among the hardest hit by natural gas supply cuts, faced severe impacts on both its industrial and residential sectors. Within days of the conflict’s onset, the German government proposed short-term plans to rent Floating Storage Regasification Units (FSRUs) and long-term plans to construct land-based Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) terminals. These proposals encountered substantial opposition from NGOs, who argued that such measures could lead to a lock-in situation, thereby jeopardizing Germany’s climate goals. Despite the opposition, the German government proceeded with its plans while striving to maintain public support. This study explores the framing strategies used by the German government in justifying the construction and funding of LNG terminals in the wake of the energy crisis triggered by the war in Ukraine. It aims to uncover the reasons behind the selected frames and their implications for Germany’s energy policy and climate objectives. Through a comprehensive analysis of government statements, policy documents, and public communications, this research seeks to identify the key narratives and rationales employed by the German government. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the interplay between energy security concerns and climate commitments in the context of geopolitical crises. Additionally, this study aims to provide insights into the broader implications for energy policy-making and the balance between immediate energy needs and long-term sustainability goals.

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