Public Examination of Witnesses by the 2nd Parliamentary Committee of Inquiry on “Nuclear Phase-Out”
Berlin, December 16, 2024
The 2nd Parliamentary Committee of Inquiry on “Nuclear Phase-Out” held a public examination of witnesses on December 16, 2024. The focus of the hearing was on the role of various stakeholders in the decision-making process leading to Germany’s nuclear phase-out.
Witnesses Examined
The following individuals were examined as witnesses:
- Dr. Robert Habeck, former Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Action
- Dr. Eveline Lemke, former Minister for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Building and Nuclear Safety
- Prof. Dr. Hans-Martin Henning, President of the Federal Environment Agency
- Prof. Dr. Claudia Kemfert, Head of the Department of Energy, Transportation and Environment at the German Institute for Economic Research
- Mr. Ulrich Kelber, President of the Federal Office for Radiation Protection
Key Findings
The examination of witnesses revealed several key findings regarding the decision-making process behind Germany’s nuclear phase-out:
- Political Factors: The decision to phase out nuclear power was primarily driven by political considerations, particularly the public outcry following the Fukushima nuclear disaster in Japan.
- Scientific Assessment: While scientific reports provided some support for the phase-out, there was no clear scientific consensus on the necessity or timing of the transition.
- Economic Impacts: The witnesses acknowledged the significant economic challenges associated with the nuclear phase-out, including job losses and potential energy shortages.
- Energy Security: Concerns were raised about the potential impact of the phase-out on Germany’s energy security, particularly in the context of the ongoing energy crisis.
- Governance: The witnesses discussed the need for transparent and participatory decision-making processes, involving a wide range of stakeholders, when addressing complex issues such as nuclear phase-outs.
Further Investigation
The Committee of Inquiry indicated that further investigation is required to fully understand the decision-making process behind Germany’s nuclear phase-out. This includes examining the role of the nuclear industry, environmental groups, and international organizations.
Implications for the Future
The findings of the Committee of Inquiry are expected to have significant implications for the future of energy policy in Germany. The Committee emphasized the need for evidence-based decision-making, public engagement, and transparent governance when addressing similar complex issues in the future.
Conclusion
The public examination of witnesses by the 2nd Parliamentary Committee of Inquiry on “Nuclear Phase-Out” shed light on the complex and multifaceted decision-making process that led to Germany’s nuclear phase-out. The findings of the Committee will provide valuable insights for future policy debates and governance practices in the energy sector.
Öffentliche Zeugenvernehmung des 2. Untersuchungsausschusses „Atomausstieg“
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