Markus Söder Proposes Reactivating Germany's Recently Decommissioned Nuclear Power Plants

The Bavarian leader argues for energy stability, but operators and critics highlight technical and legal challenges.

Bavarian Premier Markus Söder has called for the reactivation of the Isar 2, Emsland, and Neckarwestheim 2 nuclear plants, decommissioned in 2023 as part of Germany's nuclear phase-out.
Söder argues that the reactivation could ensure energy stability for at least the next decade, but acknowledges that federal law would need to be amended for this to proceed.
Operators of the plants have dismissed the feasibility of reactivation, citing ongoing decommissioning processes, staff shortages, and outdated safety standards.
Söder also suggested revisiting Germany's nuclear waste storage policies, referencing a study claiming advancements in reducing radioactive waste and storage timelines.
The proposal includes exploring new small modular reactors for future energy needs, with initial research already underway at the Technical University of Munich.