Follow-up costs of lignite mining: Ensuring financing in line with the polluter pays principle

The accelerated phase-out from coal and the tense economic situation for lignite-fired power plants make it clear that hedging the financial risks is more urgent than ever before. However, the "precautionary agreements" signed in Brandenburg and Saxony are not suitable for this purpose.

Instead, security deposits and improved corporate liability must ensure that the polluters also pay for the follow-up costs of lignite mining.