“Dangerous for Switzerland”: Axpo wants Beznau nuclear power plant to remain operational until 2040

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The electricity grid is cracking in Switzerland: Axpo makes a U-turn on its energy plans. The reason: More energy is needed to meet climate goals. Axpo announced a series of measures for this purpose.

The electrical heavyweight wants to examine, among other things, the ongoing operation of the Beznau nuclear power plant. The world’s oldest nuclear power plant has been in operation for 60 years. Axpo originally wanted to stop operating the Beznau 1 and 2 nuclear power plants around 2030. Over 2.5 billion francs have been invested in the security of the facility in recent years.

As another precaution, Axpo offers a backup power plant project for emergencies. In July 2023, the Federal Office for Energy (BFE) launched a tender. The project is planned to be completed after 2026.

“Unnecessary and dangerous”

The Swiss Energy Foundation (SES) commented on Axpo’s decision in its statement. He openly criticized the decision. “From a security of supply perspective, overtime is unnecessary and dangerous for Switzerland.” They call on Axpo to stick to its original position of closing Beznau 1 and 2 by 2030.

Stephanie Eger, head of SES’s nuclear energy department, makes clear statements: “If Axpo considers extending the deadline, it does so primarily with its own wallet in mind, not for security of supply or Switzerland.” There are no lifetime restrictions for nuclear power plants in Switzerland.

Source :Blick