Swiss nuclear power plants can be operated for as long as they meet the legal safety requirements. The indefinite operating licenses combined with the requirements for the safety of nuclear facilities lead to continuous retrofitting and adaptation to the latest state of the art. The safety standards of Swiss nuclear power plants are therefore among the highest in the world.
Long-term operation is when a plant is operated for longer than was originally technically defined. The long-term operation of Swiss nuclear power plants is of the utmost importance for the country's energy supply, especially in the cold winter months. The existing plants produce around the clock and, together with hydropower, form the backbone of Switzerland's electricity supply. The operators of the Beznau, Gösgen and Leibstadt nuclear power plants ensure that nuclear energy will continue to make its contribution to a reliable supply of electricity in the coming decades through continuous upgrades.
A limited operating time for nuclear power plants:
A time limit means in particular:
Thanks to careful and extensive retrofitting, Swiss nuclear power plants have almost reached the safety level of new plants - an internationally outstanding track record. The Swiss Federal Nuclear Safety Inspectorate (ENSI) regularly inspects the condition of the plants by law and can order upgrades or even the temporary decommissioning of the plant at any time if there are doubts about safety.
The proof of safety required for long-term operation is regulated by the Swiss Federal Nuclear Inspectorate (ENSI). The following points, among others, are set out in the corresponding directive:
