Nuclear process on hold for “at least” two years
The process to build new nuclear power stations in Switzerland will not restart for at least two years, according to Environment Minister Doris Leuthard.
Leuthard was speaking at the end of a two-day visit to Italy, during which the two countries agreed to draw up a declaration of their intentions for greater cooperation on energy issues.
Both countries suspended plans to build new nuclear power stations in the wake of recent events in Japan.
“It will certainly take at least two years before the procedures can be restarted in Switzerland,” Leuthard said.
Leuthard said energy issues in relation to safety, efficiency and renewables had become more important to both countries following events in Japan.
The future of Swiss exports of nuclear energy to Italy will depend on the outcome of the political debate in Switzerland, Leuthard said.
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