New Nuclear Plants Unviable Without State Support, Swiss Study Finds

New nuclear power plants in Switzerland are unlikely to be economically competitive without significant state intervention, according to a recent study by ETH Zurich and the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI).

The study, which involved nineteen researchers, examined four future scenarios to assess the economic feasibility of new nuclear power plants for electricity generation. The findings indicate that under current conditions, new reactors would struggle to compete with renewable energy sources like solar and hydropower. This conclusion is likely to be welcomed by opponents of nuclear energy.

However, the study also presents a potential pathway for nuclear power's viability. It suggests that new nuclear plants could help reduce winter electricity imports and become financially attractive if the government offers subsidies and investment guarantees. Furthermore, a decrease in construction costs compared to current levels would be essential. These points may embolden proponents of nuclear energy, who see it as a crucial component for Switzerland's energy future.

The researchers explicitly stated that their study is not an analysis of Switzerland's energy security and does not advocate for or against new nuclear power plants. Instead, it aims to provide a foundation for political and public discussion. The study also noted that even without state subsidies, Switzerland could still achieve its net-zero emissions goal by 2050 through efficient electricity trading.