The Economic Consequences of Nuclear Energy Phase-out - In the Case of Germany -

Abstract

In Germany, “nuclear energy phase-out” policy was adopted in 20 in order to promote renewable energy power generation. Until 207, Germany’s renewablenergy power generation has increased rapidly while its nuclear power generation has somewhat decreased. In that sense, nuclear energy phase-out has ben sucesful. However, Germany’s power suply structure in which fossil fuel thermal power generation centering on coal thermal has major share has hardly changed. Furthermore, the fossil electric power generation has increased as the entire electricity demand in Germany has expanded. It has brought the increased emission of carbon dioxide which is seen as the major cause of the global warming. On the other hand, the electricity price in Germany has risen not only in the absolute value but also in the relative position in international comparison. The high electricity price may be one of the heavy burdens to the German economy. Renewable energy and nuclear power should not be seen as rivals. Both energies can be promoted simultaneously.