In a historic move, Germany is shutting down its last three nuclear power plants on 15 April 2023, despite concerns over the energy crisis. This marks the end of the German nuclear age and a transition towards renewable energy sources. While short-term consequences may include increased reliance on fossil fuels, Germany aims to lead the way in renewable energy with ambitious climate targets. In 2022, renewables made up 46% of the country’s energy generation, a significant increase from less than 25% a decade ago. The German government is working on regulatory relaxations to speed up wind power project approvals, as well as focusing on hydrogen, decarbonisation of heating and transport systems, and power grid expansion.
The great nuclear debate
Germany’s decision to close its last three nuclear reactors has been met with mixed reactions. Wolfgang Kubicki, deputy leader of the Free Democrats, argued that the shutdown would be “a dramatic mistake” with economic and ecological consequences. Others insisted that the nuclear plants should be maintained as a fallback option. However, German Environment Ministry officials countered that keeping the reactors maintained would be illegal and costly, as they last underwent safety checks in 2009 and extending their lifetime would require comprehensive security assessments.
Despite the debate, Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s government, which includes the Green Party, decided to proceed with the nuclear phase-out. With the winter of 2022-2023 passing without significant energy supply issues, thanks to the import of liquefied natural gas, there was no compelling reason to postpone the plan. The German public opinion largely supports the move, as the powerful anti-nuclear movement has been fueled by fears of Cold War conflict and accidents like Chernobyl and Fukushima.
Renewable energy: challenges and goals
Germany is not only phasing out nuclear power but also aims to shut down its coal-fired power plants by 2038, many of them by 2030. This presents a complex challenge as coal still accounts for a third of the country’s electricity production. To meet its climate targets, Germany needs to install “four to five wind turbines every day” over the next few years, as stated by Olaf Scholz. In 2022, only 551 wind turbines were installed, highlighting the urgency of accelerating renewable energy adoption.
As part of its climate action programme, Germany’s federal coalition government has introduced legislative changes in two major packages: the Easter Package and the Summer Package. Key reforms include abolishing the renewables levy, reforming the Renewable Energy Act (EEG), and setting ambitious goals for renewable energy share and capacity. By 2030, the government aims to have a renewables share of at least 80% in power consumption, doubling onshore wind capacity to 115 GW and reaching 215 GW in solar PV installations.
Supporting local communities and green initiatives
Germany is also promoting citizen-led energy initiatives by exempting them from participating in tender schemes, allowing local communities to benefit financially from wind parks and ground-mounted solar PV projects. This approach strengthens public engagement and fosters a sense of ownership in the country’s energy transition.
The government’s commitment to a greener future is further demonstrated by its focus on green hydrogen production and support for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure and hydrogen refuelling stations. These efforts, combined with Germany’s ambitious climate targets, signal a strong push towards a more sustainable energy landscape, even as the country says goodbye to nuclear power.
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