Version 1.0
01. „Energy security“ – political slogan of the growth society
The term „energy security“ is used to excuse unpolular things or damaging activities. For energy security coal powered plants have to continue existing, for energy security gas deals with autocratic states are inevitable. Therefore it is about time to look into the concept of energy security and ask: „who needs what kind of energy for whom?“. The seminar looks into this question and into concrete impacts of coal mining and use in different countries as well as into the role of exporting gas for stabilising autocratic regimes. The final day will look into resistance and alternatives to the there-is-no-alternative energy needs.
The first day starts with an input and discussion looking into big-E „Energy“ (energy as inherent part of the growth model society, based on centralised structures and inequality) and small-e „energies“ (energy for real needs, as a commons). A role play introduces „energy security“ which is not about using less, but secure access to more and more energy.
The second day focusses on „coal“ and the role coal plays in the development of different countries. Coal secures „cheap“ energy security, but is dangerous not only from the point of view of climate change: the mining poses human rights, health, environmental threats, too. This is true in all countries from where Germany imports most of its coal: Colombia, Russia, South Africa, USA. Resistance against coal mining and burning are presented. Group work, presentation and discussion.
The third day focusses on „gas“ and starts with a film on the „Southern Gas Corridor“, followed by input, role play and discussions. This gas pipeline is supposed to bring gas from Azerbaijan to the EU. The income from oil and gas stabilises the authoritarian Aliyev regime. In Italy, where the gas pipeline is supposed to end, the local population fights against the construction. The EU Commission pushes for the construction of the pipelines despite sinking gas demand.
The fourth day presents examples of resistance and alternatives. Looking into texts, films and through discussions we will look into the questions: How to break the vicious circle of energy and growth? What are initiatives for a different use of energy in different countries? What do we need for the resistance?
Speaker
 |
Regine Richter |