German nuclear policy skirts a taboo

By Vera Eckert - Analysis

FRANKFURT (Reuters) - Germany's nuclear power policy of keeping old reactors open longer to bridge the gap to greener energy may also leave the door open to eventually break a major electoral taboo -- new atomic power plants.

Chancellor Angela Merkel's new center-right government last week kept nuclear energy alive but stressed that would only be until renewable energies are fully viable. Popular opposition to nuclear is strong and visceral.

A total of 17 reactors had faced closure in the coming decade but can now expect a new lease of life.

Analysts think this leaves room for opinions to change.

"There is an attempt in Germany to establish a policy comfort zone," said Lawrence Poole of IHS Global Insight.

"Once they have that in place and safe and well maintained nuclear plants continue to supply power, it makes it that much easier to progress the overall debate," he said, adding, "Whether that means new plants is another question."

Merkel's political opponents have been less circumspect in raising their own suspicions.

"The oldest scrap metal reactors remain online despite all safety problems," said Green politician and former environment minister Juergen Trittin in a comment on the coalition deal.

"The nuclear consensus is being reversed despite a clear majority against this and an out-of-date and expensive, risky technology is being continued in favor of the market power and the profits of the four big energy groups," he said.

Politicians avoid talk of new plants as they must respect public sensitivity over safety and unresolved waste issues.

A ZDF television poll last month showed that 52 percent of the population still preferred the exit deal to stay in place.

But some 41 percent were for life extensions rather than 36 percent prior to the September election.

"Longer life cycles are the declared intention of the two ruling parties and can be assumed as a given," said Matthias Heck, utility analyst at private bank Sal. Oppenheim.

"The financial and safety details of such a move could be finalized by next spring, as the coalition deal says this should happen as soon as possible."

Operators have some time to play with even in the unlikely case that discussions are postponed until after a key state election in May 2010.