On 21 October 2011, members of the Ecoscholars network visited the headquarters of the Clearingstelle EEG, the agency responsible for facilitating and settling disputes and issues of application that emerge under Germany’s Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG). Dr. iur. Martin Winkler, Member of the Panel of Clearingstelle EEG, gave an overview of both the EEG and the Clearingstelle EEG, and responded to questions from the attending Ecoscholars.

Participants from Ecoscholars used the opportunity to learn about Germany’s renewable framework. Dr Winkler’s presentation introduced the main elements of the EEG, including the scope of application, priority obligations, feed-in tariffs, and the nationwide equalisation scheme (for cost-sharing). He also gave an overview of the history, development, and rationale behind the establishment of the Clearingstelle. Dr. Winkler described the procedures used by the Clearingstelle for dispute settlements and legal clarifications.

Attending Ecoscholars members represented a variety of research institutions, national backgrounds, and professional interests. Some participants were actively conducting research specifically pertaining to the subject of renewable energy in Germany, while others represented other environmental research interests and welcomed the opportunity to learn more about a new issue area.

Ecoscholars is an initiative of international scholars coordinated by the Ecologic Institute. It is a discussion and networking group for international researchers, scholars, fellows, and professionals who are involved in climate change, energy, sustainability, and other environmental fields. Ecoscholars operates on a traditional academic calendar, with a kick-off event for "newcomers" during the fall.

The presentation [pdf, 320 KB, English] is available for download.