Germany Faces 'Dunkelflaute' Energy Crisis as Renewable Output Plummets

A rare combination of low wind and solar output drives record electricity prices and raises concerns over energy stability.

The German government has acknowledged a 'Dunkelflaute,' a period of simultaneous low wind and solar energy production, which has led to unprecedented electricity price spikes.
Electricity prices reached a record 936 euros per megawatt-hour last week, with neighboring countries like Sweden and Norway also impacted by rising costs due to increased exports to Germany.
Authorities are investigating potential market manipulation by energy providers, as some fossil fuel plants reportedly remained inactive despite being operational.
Experts highlight the urgent need for energy storage solutions, such as hydrogen infrastructure, to address the growing challenges of renewable energy fluctuations.
Critics argue that delays in flexible power plant development and the planned coal phase-out by 2030 could exacerbate future energy shortages during similar events.