Germany considers extending operating period of nuclear power plants

• 2 years ago (2022-02-28)
• David Flin

Europe 1089 Nuclear 659

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As a result of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the German government has announced that it is reviewing the option of keeping operating nuclear power plants beyond the 2022 cut-off of shutting them down.

Germany had intended to complete its withdrawal from nuclear power by the end of 2022. However, concerns over energy insecurity and dependence on Russian gas have caused this stance to be reconsidered. The stopping of the Nord Stream 2 pipeline has brought the question to the fore.

Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck of the Green Party said on national TV that: “It is part of my ministry’s examination duties to determine whether or not to reverse the imminent shutdown. I would not dismiss this question on ideological grounds.”

This would involve extending the time the nuclear power plants would be allowed to run.