When new nuclear power plants are worth it in Switzerland
In order for new nuclear power plants to be competitive in the future, the government would have to support nuclear energy – alongside renewables – and bear a portion of the financial risks. In return, new nuclear power plants could reduce electricity imports during winter. These are the conclusions drawn by a new study from ETH Zurich and the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI).
A new study by 19 energy experts from ETH Zurich and PSI shows that new nuclear power plants would not be competitive under present conditions.
With appropriate political backing and lower construction costs compared to what is currently available, new nuclear power plants could pay off and would reduce electricity imports in winter. Nevertheless, efficient electricity trading with neighbouring countries and the expansion of photovoltaics remain indispensable, even if new nuclear power plants are built.
The findings of the study are based on four different energy models. In cases where these models point in the same direction – despite some differences – there are robust findings that could form the basis for discussion by society and in the political sphere.
