In a world where many developed, western countries are harnessing nuclear energy more and more, Germany is doing the opposite.
The last three nuclear plants operating in Germany are all slated to close down for come tomorrow.
This serves as a win for anti nuclear power activists, really started the first protest movement that brewed as far back as the 1940’s. It was the first cause de celebre of the left, where as far back as 1949, protestors were chaining themselves to the White House with the demand that they cease all nuclear operations. For activists like these, this moment has been a long time coming.
Germany hosts Europe’s largest economy, so they may emerge as a bit of a trendsetter on this issue. However, Finland, Great Britain, and France have doubled their nuclear energy output in the last decade, signaling an opposite trend. And Poland, as reported by the NY Times, even signed up for their first ever nuclear power plant.
And in the name of “mass decarbonization”, read environmental regulation, the Biden Administration is aiming to implement a slew of mini nuclear reactors, which is a bit different than building an entire plant.
A national poll, however, showed mixed opinions among the German people. 52% of the nation opposes ending nuclear power in Germany. It’s an understandable sentiment, as Germany relies heavily on fossil fuels from Russia. Amidst the war with Ukraine, increased independent nuclear energy home produced would offset that reliance on Russia.
The German Government also pledges to have 80% renewable energy by 2030.
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