Alice Weidel, the AfD chancellor candidate, has made several misleading claims regarding Germany’s energy prices and policies during the election campaign. While she advocates for lowering energy costs and suggests reviving nuclear power, experts highlight that nuclear energy is costly and not universally viable. Additionally, nuclear energy is not CO2-neutral, contradicting Weidel’s assertions. In contrast, renewable sources like wind energy significantly reduce CO2 emissions, emphasizing the importance of accurate information in the ongoing energy policy debate.
Alice Weidel’s Misleading Claims on Energy Prices
Alice Weidel, the AfD chancellor candidate, has been vocal about her views on economic and energy matters during the current election campaign. However, many of her claims lack accuracy and misrepresent the situation in Germany.
In the ARD program ‘Farbe bekennen’, Weidel emphasized her intention to lower energy costs. Yet, her proposed solutions are based on some questionable assertions. While it’s true that energy prices in Germany are elevated, they are not the highest in Europe. Recent data from February 10, 2025, ranks Germany 9th for electricity prices and 21st when adjusted for purchasing power, according to analysis from Verivox.
The Reality of Nuclear Energy and Its Economic Viability
Weidel suggested that restarting nuclear power plants could be a solution to reduce electricity costs. However, experts like Christian Klöppelt from the Fraunhofer Institute argue that this notion is misleading. The financial implications of nuclear energy throughout its lifecycle indicate that it can be quite costly and often unprofitable.
Joe Kaeser, chairman of the supervisory board of Siemens Energy, echoed this sentiment, stating that there is not a single economically viable nuclear power plant globally. The construction of new facilities typically requires state guarantees and funding due to the high risks involved, as outlined by the International Energy Agency.
While Weidel portrayed nuclear energy as a CO2-neutral option, the reality is starkly different. The Federal Ministry for the Environment clarifies that nuclear energy is neither free from CO2 emissions nor the least carbon-intensive form of power generation. The entire process, including uranium mining and waste disposal, contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.
In contrast, renewable energy sources showcase significantly lower CO2 emissions, with wind energy emitting just 17.7 grams per kilowatt-hour compared to nuclear’s much higher output. The debate around energy policies is intensifying as the federal election approaches, highlighting the need for accurate information and effective solutions for Germany’s energy challenges.