Survey shows more than half believe decision to phase out reactors was misguided, though support for reversing course remains limited.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
A majority of Germans now believe the country’s decision to shut down its nuclear power plants was a mistake, according to new polling that reflects growing scrutiny of energy policy following years of economic and supply pressures.
The survey, reported by Die Welt, found that 53 percent of respondents consider the phase-out of nuclear energy to have been an error, compared with 40 percent who continue to support the policy. The final reactors were taken offline in April 2023, completing a transition that began under former Chancellor Angela Merkel and was carried out under the government of Olaf Scholz.
Among those critical of the decision, 32 percent described the move as “completely wrong.” Despite that sentiment, fewer respondents support a return to nuclear energy, with only 39 percent favoring a revival of the sector. Renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power were cited as the preferred alternatives.
The nuclear phase-out was initially justified on safety grounds. During the broader European energy crisis, which intensified following geopolitical tensions tied to the war in Ukraine, German officials maintained that extending reactor operations would not significantly improve supply and raised safety concerns.
However, the survey indicates that safety fears are not the primary factor shaping public opinion. Only 15 percent of respondents said they were highly concerned about nuclear accidents, while 52 percent described themselves as only slightly concerned. A similar share said historical events such as the Chernobyl disaster had not significantly altered their views on nuclear energy.
The reassessment of Germany’s energy policy has also been echoed by European leaders. Ursula von der Leyen, who previously served in Merkel’s government, said at an energy conference that the decision to reduce nuclear capacity was a “strategic mistake,” calling it a departure from a reliable and low-emissions power source.
Similar concerns have been raised by international energy officials, who argue that the absence of nuclear generation has contributed to the severity of Europe’s energy challenges, particularly as global supply routes face disruption.
Germany’s position contrasts with that of several allied nations, where policymakers are reconsidering nuclear power as part of long-term energy strategies. Countries including Slovakia have explored new reactor projects with international partners, while the United Kingdom has moved forward with agreements to develop small modular reactors, including a recent government contract aimed at expanding nuclear capacity.
The poll results suggest that while public opinion in Germany has shifted toward viewing the phase-out as a misstep, there remains limited momentum for reversing the policy, leaving the country’s energy strategy centered on renewable sources and alternative solutions.
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