Germany: Nuclear power station “extended life”** offshore wind power

The German government extended the closure of nuclear power plants and assumed the risk of hindering the introduction of offshore wind turbines. Offshore wind turbines may provide most of the renewable energy in the middle of this century.

Local media reported that German utility companies E.ON and RWE may cut their investments to pay about 300 million euros in taxes each year. The government stated that this part of the tax will be used to support the development of renewable energy.

The "longevity" of nuclear power plants is detrimental to the development of wind energy. Allowing existing nuclear power plants to continue operations means that electricity prices are stable and there is even the possibility of price cuts. This will reduce investors’ enthusiasm for wind energy.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel plans to delay the 12-year shutdown of the nuclear power plant, which was originally scheduled to be closed in 2022, to help Germany transition to renewable energy at a more reasonable price. The final nuclear power plant extension plan will be submitted to the Merkel cabinet on September 28.

According to reports, Hermann Albers, president of the German Wind Energy Association, pointed out that this resolution of the government is a retrogression of energy technology. The government is wasting huge potential for wind energy development.