As part of his visit to China, Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier opened an exhibition on the transformation of Germany’s energy system in Beijing today (8 April). The exhibition devised by the Federal Foreign Office offers visitors the opportunity to find out about the various facets of the energy transition and milestones in the area of energy policy since the oil crisis of the 1970s at 20 interactive displays. It answers frequently asked questions and encourages visitors to engage in the dialogue on a more sustainable energy supply worldwide.

With its choice of Beijing as the first port of call for the exhibition, which will go on display in many cities around the world, the German Government is highlighting the important role played by China in international energy policy. As the world’s largest consumer, producer and importer of energy, China is demonstrating increasing interest in the international dialogue on energy policy. Germany and China share the global responsibility for an economically and ecologically sustainable, secure and affordable energy supply.

Germany’s energy policy is a subject of great interest around the world. With its decision to increase energy efficiency, expand renewable energies and phase out nuclear energy, Germany is a respected pioneer around the globe – and not just since the Fukushima nuclear reactor disaster. The exhibition pays tribute to this great interest. It builds on the international Berlin Energy Transition Dialogue conference, which took place at the Federal Foreign Office in mid-March and focused on the shift to green energy. Over 1000 energy policy decision makers from 74 countries attended the event.