Germany Seen Spending €68 Billion; Nuclear, Emissions Plans Would Raise Cost

摘要

Berlin—Germany will need to spend at least €68 billion ($87 billion) through 2020 to meet its energy needs, according to a study by published by international consulting firm Ernst & Young Sept. 4.rnThe level of required investment will depend on several factors, the report said, notably how much Germany does to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and whether the country follows through on plans to close its nuclear power plants.rnThe €68 billion figure does not include the costs of closing and replacing the nuclear power plants, which is called for under current legislation. The issue continues to cause friction between the two parties that make up Germany's ruling coalition. The Christian Democrats would like to keep some nuclear facilities open,rnwhile the Socialist Party insists on going ahead with plans to close them.