German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has stated that returning to nuclear energy will not serve as a short-term solution to Germany's ongoing energy challenges. While acknowledging that shutting down the last nuclear reactors was a mistake, Merz emphasized that reactivating them would not solve current supply issues, viewing the matter as a long-term consideration. His comments align with party leader Jens Spahn, who has expressed openness to debating the possibility of recommissioning nuclear plants amidst recent energy shortages.

The last three reactors—Emsland, Isar 2, and Neckarwestheim 2—were officially shut down in April 2023, following a decision by the government to phase out nuclear power, a policy instituted after the Fukushima disaster in 2011. Despite discussions about investing approximately €10 billion to bring decommissioned plants back online, Merz highlighted that such measures are not immediate solutions, especially given the significant investments and long-term strategic planning needed. The ongoing energy shortages, exacerbated by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, have triggered debate on Germany's energy policies, but Merz maintains that nuclear power isn't a quick fix for current problems.