Data released by transmission grid firms on Friday, November 14, show that Germany’s energy capacity from renewable sources will increase by 23% between 2015 and 2019; however, related costs will also rise by over a fifth. The calculations are required in annual data from four transmission system operators to help gauge the cost of renewable energy subsidies, which are passed on to consumers as a surcharge on energy bills. While the calculations show progress in Germany’s transition to a low-carbon economy, increasing costs for consumers have been controversial and have recently contributed to policy changes to reduce renewable energy incentives and cap further expansion. In the first half of this year, renewable energy provided 28.5% of power consumed in Germany. For the full story, see: http://uk.reuters.com/article/2014/11/14/germany-renewables-idUKL6N0T449A20141114