Six Months After Power Plant Disruption, Operator Demands Compensation
Six months after a man’s protest action disrupted the demolition of the Grafenrheinfeld nuclear power plant’s cooling towers, the plant’s operator, PreussenElektra, is demanding compensation for damages. According to the company, the then 36-year-old has failed to pay the requested €12,000 within the set deadline. "We therefore reserve the right to take further legal action," a company spokesperson stated. The spokesperson declined to provide specific details. Several media outlets have previously reported on this case.
On August 16, 2024, shortly before the scheduled implosion of the iconic cooling towers near Schweinfurt, the alleged pro-nuclear activist climbed a power pole within the restricted area. His actions delayed the demolition by approximately 1.5 hours. The man was briefly detained following his protest.
PreussenElektra alleges that by delaying the demolition, the individual "acted irresponsibly and caused damage to our company. He knowingly endangered his own health and the well-being of others. We cannot accept this." As a result, the company decided to pursue compensation from the man. In addition, criminal charges have been filed.
The police investigated the man for potential coercion, trespassing, and violating a general decree issued by the Schweinfurt district administration. It remains unclear whether the investigation has been concluded.
Background of the Protest
The man’s motives for disrupting the demolition remain unclear. However, he has expressed support for nuclear energy in the past. Prior to the protest, he had participated in demonstrations against the phase-out of nuclear power in Germany.
The Grafenrheinfeld nuclear power plant was shut down in 2015. The demolition of the cooling towers marks the final stage of decommissioning the facility. The plant was one of 17 nuclear sites in Germany that were gradually phased out following the Fukushima Daiichi disaster in 2011.
Legal Implications
PreussenElektra’s demand for compensation could lead to a civil lawsuit. The company would need to prove that the man’s actions caused the alleged damages and quantify the financial loss. If the case goes to court, the man’s motive and the potential recklessness of his actions could be key factors in determining the outcome.
The criminal charges filed by PreussenElektra are also likely to be pursued. The alleged offenses include coercion, trespassing, and violating a general administrative decree. If convicted, the man could face fines or imprisonment.
Public Reaction
The protest action and the subsequent legal proceedings have sparked mixed reactions from the public. Some condemn the man’s actions as reckless and irresponsible, while others sympathize with his pro-nuclear stance. The case has highlighted the ongoing debate over the future of nuclear energy in Germany and the challenges associated with decommissioning nuclear facilities.
