It was actually planned that the three reactors would go offline at the end of last year, but due to the energy crisis caused by the war in Ukraine, the government of Chancellor Olaf Scholz postponed this to April 15. But a small majority of 52 percent in the Bild poll does not agree. Of those surveyed, 37 percent were in favor and the rest had no opinion.
Due to the war in Ukraine and the sharp drop in gas supplies from Russia, energy prices shot up sharply last year and there were even concerns about gas shortages in the winter. The nuclear power plants helped with sufficient power supply to households and businesses. Critics say that with the decision to completely phase out nuclear energy, Germany is turning its back on a reliable and affordable means of energy supply.
CDU also dissatisfied
Friedrich Merz, the leader of the opposition party CDU, says that there is little understanding abroad of Germany’s move away from nuclear energy, given the great uncertainty in the energy market. He also points out that more use is being made of coal-fired power plants, which actually cause emissions.
Merz states that Germany managed to avoid energy shortages last winter by saving a lot and thanks to the mild temperatures. However, there is a lack of electricity production capacity in Germany, said the opposition leader.