Energy
Electricity – A High-Capacity, Modern System of Generation and Supply
As compared to its counterparts anywhere in the world, Bavaria’s energy supply system is technologically advanced, economically efficient and environmentally-compatible. The system constitutes one of the state’s business assets, as it provides companies—of all descriptions and sizes—with what they need to easily develop their operations.
Bavaria’s mix of energy sources shows a number of differences when compared to that of Germany as a whole. The amount of energy produced by fossil fuels is substantially lower in Bavaria than in Germany; with the input from regenerative (with this primarily involved in hydro power and biomass—defined to be those biological materials whose decomposition or combustion produce fuel or energy) and nuclear energy being markedly higher in Bavaria. Bavaria’s energy efficiency (unitized according to economic output) is also greater than that of Germany as a whole.
Bavaria played a major part in the rewriting of the laws governing Germany’s market for energy. Their rewriting led to a deregulation of the country’s markets for electricity and natural gas. Hence, Bavaria’s system of electricity generation and distribution is known for its capacities, efficiency and extremely high environmental compatibility. The system features:
- Power Plants and High Capacity Supply Mains that assure an uninterrupted power supply to companies and households throughout the state.
- Hydraulic power (a domestic source) and nuclear powers (a “semi-domestic” source) provide 80% of the state’s electricity. Imported oil and natural gas are responsible for less than 2% of electricity generated.
Deregulation and Lowered Costs
In January 1998 the electricity market was completely deregulated. In addition to lowering the price of electricity it made the suppliers highly competitive on an international basis. Electricity and the price paid for it have become a factor benefiting the state’s manufacturers and other businesses.
Reduced Air-Borne Emissions
The volume of air-borne emissions has been significantly reduced by the commissioning of nuclear power plants and the employment of “scrubbers” in coal-fired, oil-fired and natural gas-fired power plants. Today, the state’s power plants emit only a fraction of they did in the mid-70s.
Natural Gas – Widely Available
Natural gas is a widely available energy source in Bavaria. In the early 70’s construction of a natural gas supply grid was undertaken. Made up of pipeline grids, which form an integral part of the Europe-wide network, and reservoirs located under the Alpine foothills, Bavaria's natural gas supply system can store enough natural gas to meet the state’s requirements for 3 months. This grid is more than 30,000 km long and covers nearly all of the state, including large cities.
Oil – An Ample Supply
Bavaria's oil refineries and pipelines are part of the international oil processing and supply network. This inter-linkage assures that the state’s consumers are being supplied with secure sources of fuel oil, gasoline and other oil-based products. These cover roughly half the state’s total energy needs. |
