Söder Advocates for Mini Nuclear Power Plants to Bolster german Energy Independence
BERLIN - November 15, 2025 - Bavarian Minister-President Markus Söder is pushing for the advancement and deployment of small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) in Germany, arguing they are essential for securing the nation’s energy future and maintaining industrial competitiveness. Söder’s call comes amid ongoing debates about Germany’s energy transition and concerns over reliance on imported energy sources.
The proposal aims to address growing anxieties about Germany’s economic standing, especially within its crucial automotive sector. Söder contends that an overreliance on electric vehicles, while important, risks dismantling the established combustion engine industry and jeopardizing thousands of jobs.He frames the move as a pragmatic step toward energy independence and a revitalized industrial base, offering a potential solution to rising energy costs and supply vulnerabilities.
“Competitiveness must come first in Germany,” Söder stated, adding, “It is crucial that we stop restricting ourselves. We rely one-sidedly on electric cars and overlook the fact that we are destroying the combustion engine and thus our automobile industry. Thousands of jobs are at risk.” He also reiterated his support for utilizing existing gas reserves in northern Germany as an interim measure.
Söder’s advocacy for nuclear power represents a departure from Germany’s current energy policy, which includes a planned phase-out of nuclear energy. The move is likely to reignite debate over the safety and environmental implications of nuclear power, even in its smaller, more modern SMR form. The discussion is expected to intensify as Germany navigates the complexities of its energy transition and seeks to balance environmental goals with economic realities.
