Landmark Climate Case Against RWE Enters Critical Phase in German Court

Peruvian farmer Saúl Luciano Lliuya seeks corporate accountability for climate-related risks, as expert testimony on flood probability remains contested.

Saúl Luciano Lliuya, supported by Germanwatch, is suing RWE for contributing to climate change and demanding 0.47% of protective costs against potential flooding from the Palcacocha glacier lake.
Court-appointed experts estimate a low flood probability of 1-3%, while the plaintiff's experts argue these figures underestimate risks due to climate change and permafrost destabilization.
The Oberlandesgericht Hamm is assessing whether RWE can be held liable for its 0.47% share of global greenhouse gas emissions and required to pay approximately €17,000 in damages.
RWE disputes the claims, arguing it has adhered to legal emissions standards and warning of broader implications for global emitters if the case sets a precedent.
The case has drawn significant attention from climate activists, with Luisa Neubauer calling it a historic fight against fossil fuel companies, though a decision is not expected soon.