The Emsland nuclear power plant in Lingen, Germany will cease operation on April 15th as RWE begins the dismantling process. The first phase, which is expected to take 14 years, includes the removal of fuel elements and dismantling parts of the plant. The post-operational phase typically lasts four to five years, according to KernD, the nuclear technology industry association. RWE estimates that the plant will be free of radioactivity by 2037 and will then undergo conventional dismantling.
The Emsland plant was connected to the grid in 1988, and the 2011 amendment to the Atomic Energy Act set a deadline for its closure on December 31, 2022. However, the federal cabinet extended the operating license for Emsland and two other nuclear power plants until April 15, 2023, due to the energy crisis.
Dismantling a nuclear power plant can cost between 500 million and one billion euros, depending on the plant’s size, age, and operating hours, according to RWE. The plant operators are responsible for these costs and must set aside sufficient reserves for dismantling. At least 90% of the waste generated during dismantling is concrete, glass, scrap, or plastic, which can be recycled. Components such as pumps from conventional plant operation may be sold if demand exists, but turbines are typically designed specially for each power plant.
RWE currently employs approximately 350 people at the Emsland plant, with an additional 150 from other companies working on-site. Some are permanent staff such as security personnel, and the rest work for the plant. The workforce will be reduced in the coming years, with retirement cited as a reason. Planning for the dismantling process is underway.
