Germany's recent decision to extend the operating life of its nuclear reactor fleet has touched off a great deal of controversy, even as it provides a vehicle for funding further development of renewable energy technology. In today’s GR Insight, Ailsa von Dobeneck of King’s College London analyzes Chancellor Merkel’s controversial nuclear plan as well as its potential to serve as a model for other countries grappling with a similar dilemma over nuclear policy.

Chancellor Angela Merkel launched Germany into political controversy earlier this month after presenting her forty year plan for how the country’s green revolution ought to take shape. Progress hinges on the availability of funds for research and project implementation.  These funds have become more limited due to the European economic meltdown in recent years. All decision-makers can agree that Germany’s overall energy program needs to remain focused on maintaining the country’s industrial reputation and its position as the region’s largest economy; the method for accomplishing this, however, they cannot agree on. Though only a small fraction of the text, the extended use of the country’s seventeen nuclear power plants up to fourteen years past the date of supposed retirement, has reignited the discussion of whether the country needs to rely on legacy infrastructure for its future power supply. Merkel says the move is necessary until green energy sourcing becomes affordable and reliable; however, the Green Party disagrees. This GR policy brief explores whether Germany is ready to leave the security of past energy providers for the uncertainty of a renewable-powered future.

Controversial Compromise

Over the past decade, Germany’s generous direct subsidies for renewable energy, namely wind and solar power, have enabled significant growth in alternative energy use. These supports have also been costly. It has been estimated that the total subsidy payout over the last 10 years has been €60 to €80 billion for solar power alone.

Full article here.