German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has stated that Germany’s phase-out of nuclear energy is “irreversible.” This comment came on March 10, 2026, during a press appearance in Berlin following a meeting with Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš.
Merz described the decision—completed in 2023 under the previous government, when the last three reactors were shut down—as a “strategic mistake” that he regrets. He aligned with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s view that Europe’s broader shift away from nuclear power was misguided, especially amid efforts to promote low-carbon energy sources like small modular reactors (SMRs).
Merz emphasized: “The decision is irreversible. I regret that, but that’s the way it is.” He noted that while he personally shares the criticism of the phase-out which he has previously called a “serious strategic mistake” in earlier 2026 statements, no reversal is possible for Germany due to prior government actions.
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The focus now shifts to optimizing energy policy through grid expansion, increased supply, and alternatives like renewables and potentially new gas plants or advanced technologies. This comes against a backdrop of ongoing debate in Europe over nuclear’s role in energy security and decarbonization.
Merz’s remarks highlight acceptance of the status quo despite acknowledged downsides, such as reduced baseload capacity and higher energy costs post-phase-out. Recent news reports confirm this as a fresh statement tied to EU-level discussions on nuclear expansion. No indications suggest any policy shift toward restarting or building new fission plants in the near term under his leadership.
France’s nuclear energy policy, strongly emphasizes expansion and reliance on nuclear power as the backbone of its low-carbon electricity system. Under President Emmanuel Macron, France has reversed earlier reduction targets and committed to a major nuclear renaissance. This stance contrasts sharply with Germany’s irreversible phase-out.
France operates 57 reactors (total capacity ~63 GW), producing around 65-70% of its electricity. The government prioritizes lifetime extensions to 50-60 years (subject to safety approvals by the nuclear regulator), reversing prior plans to shut down 14 older reactors early.
Nuclear output targeted at 380-420 TWh per year by 2030-2035 up from previous 360-400 TWh range, aiming for stable baseload power amid rising demand from electrification, AI/data centers, and industry. Construction of six new EPR2 reactors (evolved EPR design) confirmed, with preparatory work ongoing (e.g., potential sites like Penly, Gravelines, Bugey).
Option to launch eight additional EPR2 reactors as early as 2026 decisions. First new reactors expected online in the late 2030s/early 2040s. Exploration of small modular reactors (SMRs), with first construction targeted around the early 2030s.
The policy scales back ambitious wind/solar targets (e.g., slower onshore wind/solar growth) to prioritize nuclear stability, while still advancing offshore wind and other renewables as complements.
Increase electricity’s share in total energy consumption from ~30% to higher levels, phase out fossil fuels, enhance energy sovereignty, and support decarbonization. Nuclear positioned as key for competitiveness, AI growth, and exporting low-carbon power.
France hosted the second World Nuclear Energy Summit in Paris with IAEA involvement, where Macron highlighted nuclear’s role in energy sovereignty, decarbonization, and powering future tech like AI data centers. He noted France’s exports of ~90 TWh of decarbonized electricity in recent years.
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen echoed support, calling Europe’s past shift away from nuclear a “strategic mistake” amid energy crunches from Middle East conflicts and high fossil prices. France pushes for diversified uranium supplies reducing Russia reliance and standardized designs.
Costs for the six EPR2 reactors estimated at ~€73 billion (2020 prices, as of late 2025), with funding discussions ongoing including potential state loans and EU mechanisms.
Comparison to Germany
While Germany views its 2023 phase-out as irreversible despite regrets from leaders like Merz, France actively expands nuclear to maintain its position as Europe’s top nuclear producer and low-carbon leader. This policy reflects lessons from recent supply challenges, high energy prices, and geopolitical needs.
France’s approach positions nuclear as essential for industrial strength, climate goals, and energy independence in an uncertain world. No phase-out is planned; instead, the focus is on revival and growth.