Switzerland Sets Closure Dates for Two of Europe's Oldest Nuclear Reactors

The Beznau I and II reactors, operational since 1969 and 1971, will be decommissioned in 2032 and 2033 as part of Switzerland's gradual nuclear phaseout.

The Beznau I and II reactors, located near the German border, will be retired after 63 and 62 years of operation, according to operator Axpo.
Switzerland's 2017 referendum banned the construction of new nuclear plants but allowed existing ones to operate as long as deemed safe by authorities.
Axpo plans to invest 350 million Swiss francs to ensure the safe operation of Beznau I and II until their scheduled shutdowns.
Nuclear energy currently accounts for 29% of Switzerland's electricity production, with the Beznau reactors generating six terawatt-hours annually.
Activists, including the IPPNW, have called for earlier closures, citing safety concerns and potential risks to neighboring Germany in the event of an accident.