CEU eTD Collection (2014); Leko, Tomislav: GEOPOLITICS OF THE GERMAN ENERGIEWENDE

CEU Electronic Theses and Dissertations, 2014
Author Leko, Tomislav
Title GEOPOLITICS OF THE GERMAN ENERGIEWENDE
Summary The changing geopolitical landscape of the world marked the new era of the “battle for resources” ranging from the oil, gas and rare earth materials, to investments in technology and getting the best-practice in using the technology. Germany was the first state to launch an ambitious restructuring of its energy system which brought to the center of discussion – energy transition to renewables. By observing reaction on Ukraine/Russia 2006 gas crises, Felix Ciuta and Ian Klinka identified two geopolitical narratives in Germany emerging in 2006 - “a new Cold War narrative” and a “strategic partnership narrative” elaborating on relations between Germany and the Russian Federation. Although both narratives have their strongpoints even today, this thesis aims to show the emerging geopolitical narrative in the energy security domain in Germany that is becoming the dominant one, and is based on the implementation of the energy transition to renewables (Energiewende). According to this narrative, Germany, aware of its role, is a “frontrunner” and a “role-model”, which plays a “global pioneering role” and is capable of developing new technologies, and of leading a new energy revolution in renewable energy. By keeping this path, Germany will ensure energy independence, economic growth and bigger exporting opportunities. With these claims, the narrative legitimates costly investments in the renewables sector and frames domestic and external policies of the Federal Republic of Germany. The geopolitical narrative has also its external dimension where it aims to convince international community that policies Germany takes are aimed to conduct the energy transition.
Supervisor Merlingen, Michael
Department International Relations MA
Full texthttps://www.etd.ceu.edu/2014/leko_tomislav.pdf

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