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Merkel Says Germany To Temporarily Shut Down Seven Reactors

March 15, 2011

Chancellor Angela Merkel announced today that Germany will temporarily shut down its oldest nuclear reactors in light of events in Japan.

The decision will affect seven reactors, all of which went into operation before the 1980s.

The seven oldest reactors are expected to be turned off for at least three months.

Most Germans oppose nuclear energy, according to opinion polls.

Merkel is facing key regional elections in coming weeks. Her announcement came after she met with the governors of states that have nuclear power plants.

European energy ministers, nuclear authorities, and other atomic energy officials are scheduled to meet in Brussels today to review nuclear safety measures.

compiled from agency reports

Source: http://www.rferl.org/content/germany_to_shutter_seven_reactors/2338768.html

Copyright (c) 2011. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.