Industry Energy Consumption Drops in 2022, Rhineland-Palatinate Leads the Pack
The industry in Rhineland-Palatinate saw a drastic 16.6% decrease in energy consumption in 2022, setting a record for the sharpest decline among federal states, as reported by the State Statistical Office in Bad Ems. This figure exceeded the national average decline of 9.1% for 2022.
High energy prices and reduced production in energy-intensive industries due to the Russian attack on Ukraine were major contributors to this drop in energy consumption, according to the Federal Statistical Office in Wiesbaden.
In the Rhineland-Palatinate industry, natural gas remained the primary energy source, making up an impressive 46% of the overall consumption. However, consumption of natural gas decreased by 14.6% compared to the previous year.
Despite the significant decrease, the chemical industry accounted for the largest share of energy consumption in Rhineland-Palatinate at more than 68%. This sector, however, also experienced a noticeable drop of 21.1% compared to 2021.
Key Insights
Regional differences in energy consumption and heating costs are significant factors in Germany's overall energy landscape. Maine, Worms, and Braunschweig in Rhineland-Palatinate witnessed substantial decreases in energy consumption between 2024, with Mainz leading the way at 26.1%, Worms following closely at 23%, and Braunschweig at 20.5%. On the other hand, Baden-Württemberg observed a rise in energy consumption, with cities like Lahr, Freiburg im Breisgau, Pfullendorf, and Laupheim reporting increases in heating consumption.
The decline in energy consumption in Rhineland-Palatinate's industry spurred interest in the regional differences driving this trend. However, the sources did not provide specific information on the factors contributing to this decrease in Rhineland-Palatinate.
