Nuclear energy

Nuclear energy stands for reliable and climate-friendly electricity production. Because nuclear power plants have practically no CO₂ emissions and can produce electricity around the clock. Germany has decided to phase out this technology by 2022. Our subsidiary EnBW Kernkraft GmbH (EnKK) is responsible for the operation and post-operation, as well as the decommissioning and dismantling of our five nuclear power plants. We still produce electricity at two plants (Philippsburg 2 and Neckarwestheim II); however, we have already applied to dismantle them. The remaining three plants no longer generate electricity and are currently being dismantled: Obrigheim since 2008; Neckarwestheim I and Philippsburg I since 2017.

Safe direct dismantling of nuclear power plants

Empty machine house in Obrigheim

In 2012, EnKK defined and communicated a strategy for the dismantling of all blocks, thus creating clarity for politics, society, business partners, and employees. In its strategy, EnKK opted for the safe direct dismantling of nuclear power plants because this has many advantages:

In-house employees as well as those of partner companies can be deployed. They are familiar with the equipment and possess the necessary qualifications.
Infrastructure and system technology on the power plant site are largely available and usable.
The power plant site is available for subsequent use sooner.
The location remains an uninterrupted regional economic factor.

EnKK’s experience from the dismantling of the Obrigheim nuclear power plant can also be optimally incorporated into the preparation and implementation of the dismantling in Philippsburg and Neckarwestheim.

EnBW’s five plants are in different phases of the cycle of a nuclear power plant

Info days on the dismantling of nuclear power plants

EnBW makes its projects concerning the decommissioning of nuclear power plants transparent for the general public by providing regular information and dialogues. Since 2013, information days have been held at the Neckarwestheim, Obrigheim, and Philippsburg locations. The following video demonstrates, by way of example, the Info Days in 2015.