Germany to prioritize essential energy goods by rail if Rhine disruption worsens


DB Netz, the rail network arm of operator Deutsche Bahn, has already revamped the terms of use to give preference to trains carrying petroleum products and coal for power generators, as Germany attacks an energy crisis.

“The aim is to ensure the continued operation of power plants, refineries, power grids and other system-important infrastructure,” said the draft drawn up by the transport and economy ministers and seen by Reuters.

It also mentioned that gas and transformer equipment for power generation and transmission should take priority over passenger transportation services and other industrial needs.

The German government’s cabinet must approve the interim legislation which would be limited to six months, according to the draft.

Water levels on the Rhine are low due to unusually hot and dry weather, which prevents many ships from sailing this critical sea route fully loaded.

This situation coincided with a shortage of gas for power plants, heating and industrial processes due to the reduction of Russian exports, which led operators to temporarily return to a greater use of coal and oil.

“We need extraordinary measures to ensure security of supply,” said the Minister of Economy Robert Habeck in a press release.

An important waterline reference level at the Kaub choke point near Koblenz was 34 centimeters midday (1000 GMT) on Sunday, 3 cm lower than Saturday at the same time.

Kaub reached 25cm at some point in 2018.



Source link -88