As Russia reduces natural-gas supply to Europe's top economy, Germany is considering delaying the shutdown of its remaining nuclear plants.
A worst intensified-case scenario calculation has been commissioned by the economy minister. "Let's have a look at that," said the Chancellor of Germany. He was asked if he might reconsider keeping the plants online.
Germany has stopped using nuclear energy since the disaster in Japan. The anti-nuclear movement in Germany began in the 70s.
The proposal to prolong the operations of the nuclear plants was rejected by the Chancellor.
The Green Party, which was born from the anti-nuclear movement, has softened on its position to switch off all nuclear reactor this year.
The co-leader of the Green Party told German TV that they need to react according to the current situation.
Lang said that they need to prevent a wave of poverty.
Almost all of the country's natural gas is imported from Russia, accounting for 34% of the total.
Technical reasons have caused Russia to cut supplies to Germany and beyond. Natural-gas flows to Germany were slashed by Russia on Wednesday. The supply squeeze has pushed up power bills.
German industry leaders warn of a severe economic hardship if Russian gas is cut. The country's top union official said earlier this month that industries could collapse in such a scenario.
Business is expected to become more difficult in the next few months. The president of the Ifo Institute said that they were less satisfied with their situation. The country is on the verge of a recession.
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