German Nuclear Association urges restart of nuclear reactors

In August 2011, Germany passed the 13th amendment to the Nuclear Energy Act with the aim of phasing out nuclear energy. This led to the immediate closure of eight reactors, with the last three units shutting down in April 2023. The transition to renewable energy has been slow, particularly wind energy in Bavaria, and the expansion of the electricity grid has lagged, leaving Germany dependent on fossil fuels and energy imports to meet demand. Kerntechnik Deutschland (KernD) argues that Germany’s electricity costs are uncompetitive and warns that continued reliance on renewable energy infrastructure is financially unsustainable. It advocates the restart of up to six closed nuclear reactors, arguing that this could be done within 3-5 years without compromising safety. Restarting the plants would help phase out coal power, reduce CO2 emissions and support the expansion of renewable energy. KernD emphasizes the urgency for the federal government to create a framework for restarting nuclear plants and provide expertise to prevent economic decline. Its members, including major companies such as Framatome and Orano, are prepared to assist in the process.