Six-point energy plan: Union calls for longer nuclear power plant runtimes

Longer lifespans for nuclear power plants, “energy-saving vouchers” and greater use of biogas: the Union is introducing a six-point plan – and in doing so wants to increase the pressure on the Liberals.

In view of the currently low gas supply from Russia, the CDU and CSU are calling on the federal government to continue operating the three nuclear power plants that will be connected to the grid until the end of the year. They would currently provide six to seven percent of Germany’s electricity, according to the deputy parliamentary group leader Jens Spahn: “We need as much electricity as possible.”

According to the application, the traffic light coalition must provide replacements and alternatives to gas more quickly ARD Capital Studio is available exclusively and is due to go into Parliament on Thursday. In addition, energy must be saved earlier. Spahn said that in this serious situation, action must be taken quickly, decisively and pragmatically. “If all the necessary measures are not taken now, it will catch up with us by winter at the latest.” The Union is calling for comprehensive transparency to be created immediately.

The Bundestag must be informed regularly about the additional supplies of gas, oil and coal that can be expected. Incentives for saving energy should be set immediately, according to the Union. It should not be waited until the emergency level is reached.

“Energy saving vouchers” for private households?

For example, the government should provide “energy-saving vouchers” for private households. According to the ideas of the Union, federal properties should take the lead and implement energy-saving measures for cooling, heating and lighting, provided that there are no conflicting interests in need of protection. In addition, the Union calls on the federal government to make greater use of biogas. Obstacles should be removed in order to be able to feed in more biomethane.

With its six-point plan, the Union is specifically increasing the pressure on the Liberals. “The traffic light must now show its true colors when it comes to nuclear power: the FDP must show whether they stand by their position, and the Greens and SPD whether they are giving up their ideological blockade.” The CDU and CSU are calling for the three nuclear power plants that are still in operation to continue to operate for a limited period of time. The traffic light government had to decide on this in July 2022.