Despite a series of sunny days, electricity remains relatively expensive. The conventional coal and gas-fired power stations make up the price. As an alternative to fossil fuel-fired power stations, nuclear energy is back on the European agenda.
The price for electricity remained at a stable but high level last week. On Thursday, May 5, the quotation on the Epex Spot reached its highest point in seven days, at €233,72 per MWh. By the way, the price fell again on Sunday, May 8, to €169,19 per MWh. The relatively high prices are caused by the fact that conventional power stations set the tone on the market. Although the good weather ensures a greater supply of solar energy, production from sustainable sources in the total electricity mix was disappointing due to relatively little wind.
A possible ban on coal, gas and oil from Russia is causing additional tension on the energy market. To become independent, nuclear energy is back on the European agenda. Nuclear energy now accounts for around 25% of demand in the European Union. Thierry Breton, the European Commissioner for Internal Markets, said earlier this year that the European Union must invest at least €2050 billion in nuclear energy in the period up to 500. That money must not only be invested in new power stations, but also in keeping existing nuclear power stations open. If nothing happens, the share of nuclear energy in the energy mix will drop to 2050% in 15.
Leader France
France already depends on nuclear power plants for 70% of its demand and the country previously announced plans to keep old power plants in operation for longer. France also has plans to build six new power stations by 2050. Last month, the United Kingdom reported that it wanted to expand its nuclear capacity from 7 GW to 24 GW in 2050. Although not all member states have this kind of ambition. Belgium, Germany and Italy, among others, have decided to work towards closing their nuclear power stations after the Fukushima disaster.