Publication "Potential human rights risks along supply and value chains. Selected sections of the German energy industry"

The document “Potential human rights risks along supply and value chains. Selected sections of the German energy industry” is the first milestone of the Energy Sector Dialogue.

It was published on 13 September 2023 and presented as part of a high-level meeting bringing together Lilian Tschan, State Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, and senior representatives of the participants of the Energy Sector Dialogue.

The publication marks the culmination of an intensive, constructive Sector Dialogue discussion process. With the “Potential risks” document, the dialogue participants have developed and documented a shared understanding of sector-specific human rights risks faced by the energy industry. The publication provides an overview of the worldwide supply and value chains of the German energy industry, as well as of inherent potential human rights risks.

The focus is on six industry sections: photovoltaics, battery storage, wind energy, natural gas, power grids and hydrogen. The Sector Dialogue is thus concentrated on those business areas that are of key importance for Germany’s energy transition. It thereby contributes to making the green transition fair for everybody.

For companies, the publication can serve as a first point of reference for the implementation of the abstract risk assessment under the Act on Corporate Due Diligence Obligations in Supply Chains. In addition, the findings serve as a basis for the development of joint prevention measures and remedies by the Sector Dialogue.