Phasing out the use of nuclear energy for electricity production is often cited as a recommended policy strategy by anti-nuclear activists. This claim is very difficult to empirically test, however, Japan and Germany both offer interesting case studies into the economic, social, and greenhouse gas related consequences of phasing out nuclear energy on a rapid time scale. The results of the Japanese and German case studies inform a hypothetical phase out of nuclear energy from Ontario's energy mix. In all cases considered, rapid nuclear energy phase-out resulted in increased electricity costs, higher GHG emissions, and social externalities.
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