The Dutch energy minister recently called on Germany to consider extending the operating life of its nuclear power plants, although this is highly unlikely to happen. As Europe faces its worst energy crisis in decades, European countries are rushing to reduce their dependence on Russian energy. The Netherlands plans to halt Russian gas imports in 2022 and has lifted restrictions on coal-fired power plants to improve energy security.
As previously reported, Germany currently has only three operational nuclear power units -- Isar 2, Emsland and Necka 2 -- all scheduled to close by the end of 2022. The operator currently considers that the three units are not suitable for life extension as their outage preparations have advanced significantly and there is no guarantee that the three units can continue to operate in accordance with the highest safety standards. In addition, nuclear fuel supplies may not be secured.