From Atomkraft to Abschaltung: The Reactivation Potential of German Nuclear Power Plants

Abstract

Germany’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2045 has accelerated its transition to renewable energy after the previous decade’s push towards a nuclear phase-out, but simultaneously contributed to rising electricity prices and economic strain. The Russian-Ukrainian conflict further exposed vulnerabilities in Germany’s energy system, driving up energy costs and impacting both citizens and the industrial sector. As a result, debate over the role of nuclear power has reignited in political and public discourse. This thesis evaluates the economic feasibility of reactivating decommissioned nuclear power plants using the PyPSADE energy system model. Through the simulation of investment and dispatch scenarios through 2050 across Germany and neighboring countries, this study compares the impacts of nuclear reactivation with continued renewable expansion in terms of cost-effectiveness and CO2 emissions. Results from the model indicate that the reintroduction of nuclear power is too time-consuming and therefore not economically feasible due to the rise of solar and wind power, suggesting the need for additional infrastructure to support the growing renewable energy sector.