Can we afford to do without coal?

The importance of coal in the energy and electricity supply industry have long been recognized worldwide. In Germany, domestic coal is considered to be the most important. In view of the fact that coal must be used in an environmentally friendly manner, Germany has successfully met this through several programs. As the supply contribution of coal has not been guaranteed for itself, many efforts have been exerted to give coal an adequate importance in the market and in politics. Due to the fact that the future of German hardcoal industry is dependent on political decisions, important political decisions for coals will be made this year.