Public Hearing of the 2nd Committee of Inquiry “Nuclear Phase-Out”
Berlin, December 2, 2024 (Press Release)
The 2nd Committee of Inquiry “Nuclear Phase-Out” of the German Bundestag held a public hearing today. The committee is investigating the circumstances surrounding the decision to phase out nuclear power in Germany.
The hearing focused on the role of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi) in the decision-making process. Witnesses included former BMWi officials, industry representatives, and environmental experts.
Key Points from the Hearing:
- Former State Secretary Rainer Baake (BMWi) stated that the decision to phase out nuclear power was based on a comprehensive assessment of safety, economic, and environmental factors.
- Industry representatives argued that the nuclear phase-out has led to increased energy costs and dependence on fossil fuels.
- Environmental experts welcomed the phase-out but emphasized the need for a timely and sustainable transition to renewable energy sources.
Key Witnesses:
- Rainer Baake: Former State Secretary, BMWi
- Dr. Werner Zittel: Former Head of the Nuclear Safety Department, BMWi
- Dr. Armin Laschet: Former Chairman of the North Rhine-Westphalia State Parliament
- Prof. Dr. Claudia Kemfert: Head of the Department of Energy, Economics, and Sustainability, German Institute for Economic Research (DIW)
Statements from Witnesses:
- Baake: “The nuclear phase-out was not a hasty decision. It was the result of a long and thorough process involving extensive consultations with experts and stakeholders.”
- Zittel: “Safety concerns played a significant role in the decision. The Fukushima disaster had a profound impact on public perception of nuclear energy.”
- Laschet: “The phase-out has had a negative impact on our energy security. We need to ensure a reliable and affordable energy supply in the future.”
- Kemfert: “The transition to renewable energy sources is essential for combating climate change. However, it needs to be carefully planned and implemented to avoid energy shortages.”
Next Steps:
The Committee of Inquiry will continue its investigation and will hold further public hearings in the coming months. The goal is to present a final report to the Bundestag in 2026, outlining the findings and recommendations of the inquiry.
Öffentliche Zeugenvernehmung des 2. Untersuchungsausschusses „Atomausstieg“
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