Lifetime extension of ageing nuclear power plants: Entering a new era of risk

In many countries of the European Union, nuclear reactors will be operated for longer in future than originally planned. Furthermore, the nuclear power plants have to generate more electricity. The components of the nuclear reactors are burdened by both their increasing age (and the associated ageing effects) and the increase in output; in this way, they constitute a potential threat to the safety of the nuclear reactors. These are the main findings of a new report which Oeko-Institut has conducted on behalf of Greenpeace.