The Bundestag's investigative committee is scrutinizing the decision-making process behind Germany's nuclear phase-out, with Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Economics Minister Robert Habeck as key witnesses. Scholz defended his 2022 decision to extend the operation of the last three nuclear power plants by a few months, despite the energy crisis exacerbated by the Ukraine conflict. The Chancellor emphasized the decision aligned with prior government agreements and was the most sensible solution at the time, rejecting longer-term extensions advocated by others.
Habeck, questioned for nine hours, rejected allegations of a biased examination of extending nuclear plant operations. He stated that safety and energy security were prioritized, arguing that nuclear plants had a limited role in Germany's energy supply. Criticism from the FDP and CDU suggests the examination was ideologically driven, a claim both Habeck and Scholz refute.
The investigation is set to conclude with a final report before the federal election. Scholz's use of his directive authority, a rare move last used by Chancellor Adenauer in 1957, was necessary to resolve internal disagreements and ensure energy security. The committee's findings could influence future policy decisions, as political parties debate the balance between energy independence and environmental commitments. The inquiry highlights the complexities in navigating energy policy amid geopolitical tensions and environmental goals.
