EMO and the energy transition
The growth in the world’s population and the global economy result in an increased demand for energy. To meet this demand in a sustainable way, the international community has committed itself to the Paris Climate Agreement (2015). The objective of this agreement is to reduce CO2 emissions and to transition from CO2 generating fossil energy sources (e.g. oil, lignite, coal and gas) to renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind energy and hydropower. In Europe, politicians, the business community, NGO’s and citizens work hard to achieve this objective. The energy transition -a transition of use of fossil fuels and not the transportation thereof- is here to stay and that is an important and positive reality.
To make a change as fundamental as the energy transition takes time. The currently available renewable energy volumes are not yet sufficient to meet total (and growing) energy demand. In addition, next to wind and solar, energy has to be generated from other (possibly fossil) sources for when there is no sun or wind available (such as during the nights).
Also, the production of wind turbines, hydropower stations and solar panels requires significant energy and natural resources. At the same time innovations such as electric vehicles will contribute to increased demand for electrical energy. Therefore, fossil resources will remain a much needed contributor to the energy mix for many years to come; however its share will decline over time.
The energy transition in the Netherlands has a road map for phasing out steam coal. No electricity production on the
basis of coal will be permitted, beyond 2030.
In Germany, the destination for a major part of coal handled via EMO, plans are to quit coal mining and burning by 2038. Nearly 40 percent of Germany's electricity comes from coal-fired power plants. In addition, Germany needs to compensate for the exit of nuclear power by 2022 and domestically mined lignite, together accounting for over 30% of Germany’s power generation. This is a major task for Germany for the next years to come.
'We are constantly on the lookout for new opportunities'
The future
During the transition period, we will remain to operate as a trustworthy and reliable partner to all our customers. Coal will become less important for the European economy. Nonetheless, our company will not lose its relevance in direct proportion. On the one hand because we not only tranship coal for the generation of energy, but also iron ore
and the coke and PCI coal required in combination with iron
ore. On the other hand, because we are specialists in the shipment and storage of dry bulk cargoes. Activities will concentrate, when it comes to fulfilling a hub function for Europe, and Rotterdam holds the best hand. EMO is ready to serve its customers as a reliable partner for decades to come.