CO 2 abatement cost in West Germany

Abstract

The CO 2-related cost comparison between using power more efficiently and generating nuclear power as executed by Keepin and Kats for the USA was welcomed by German nuclear opponents and propagated in the energy-climate discussion. Albeit the doubtful empirical relevance of the comparative computation, its application to West Germany seemed to be appropriate. Our findings are clearly in favour of the nuclear strategy reducing CO 2 emissions. But this is a minor point compared to the strategical importance of nuclear energy for the substitution of fossil fuels.