Wedoany.com Report-May 24, Germany has informed France that it will no longer oppose granting nuclear power equal status with renewable energy in European Union (EU) legislation, according to a report by Reuters. This marks a change in Germany’s position and could influence the EU’s approach to achieving climate targets.

The previous German government had phased out nuclear plants, considering atomic power low-carbon but not renewable.

Historically, Germany and France held differing views on nuclear energy. France has consistently supported nuclear power, which makes up about 70% of its energy mix, as a key component of its low-carbon strategy. Germany, on the other hand, previously phased out nuclear energy, considering it low in carbon emissions but not renewable.

Under the leadership of Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Germany is now shifting its stance. The new government aligns more closely with France’s long-standing support for nuclear energy. Both countries have agreed to focus on achieving climate neutrality, energy sovereignty, and industrial competitiveness within the EU.

This policy adjustment may lead the European Commission to reconsider its current funding approach, potentially allocating more support to nuclear energy projects. However, financing challenges, lengthy construction timelines, and complex development requirements remain barriers to the rapid expansion of nuclear power across Europe.

A French official confirmed the development, referencing a joint editorial by Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron published in Le Figaro. In the article, the two leaders emphasized: “Technological neutrality and equal treatment of all low-carbon energies must guide the EU’s energy policies.” This message supports the inclusion of nuclear energy in future climate strategies without distinguishing it unfavorably from other clean energy sources.

Although the German economy ministry declined to comment on the report, the shift in policy reflects a broader trend in Europe. Several countries, including Belgium, have paused plans to phase out nuclear power, while others—such as Sweden and several central European nations—are actively planning new reactor projects.

In a related development, France granted a preferential loan to state-owned EDF in March 2025 to help finance the construction of six EPR2 nuclear reactors. This financial package is expected to cover at least half of the total cost. EDF and the French government plan to finalize financing arrangements by spring 2025 and will then seek approval from the European Commission.

This initiative is part of President Macron’s broader strategy to modernize France’s nuclear infrastructure. The agreement between Germany and France on treating nuclear power equally with renewables could strengthen this effort and influence EU energy policy in the coming years.