Nuclear energy for climate protection?

The debate on energy policy in Germany and Europe has taken on a new momentum in recent months. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen recently described Europe’s widespread phase-out of nuclear energy as a “strategic mistake” and announced new funding, for example for so-called Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). Here in Germany, too, the revival of nuclear energy has been brought back into the debate by some political figures, whilst others continue to vehemently reject it.

The debate on nuclear energy is polarising. Proponents point to its virtually carbon-free electricity generation and to new reactor designs that promise safety and efficiency. Critics highlight unresolved issues regarding final disposal, high costs, safety risks and public acceptance. At the same time, in light of the current energy crisis, Germany faces the question of how security of supply, climate targets and economic competitiveness can be reconciled in future – including within a European and global context.

Against this backdrop, the event aims to analyse and discuss whether nuclear energy can make a meaningful and responsible contribution to achieving energy security and climate targets. Is it a transitional technology that we urgently need, or rather a misguided investment that, from an economic perspective, is not at all necessary for a secure energy supply?

The evening event will centre on two short presentations by recognised experts on the state of technological development in nuclear energy and on the economic aspects of various energy sources. Following this, the various positions will be brought together in a panel discussion and explored in greater depth in dialogue with the audience – particularly with a view to a sustainable energy mix in Germany and Europe.

Date: 29 October 2026 at 7:00 pm
Admission: from 6:30 pm

Venue: Catholic Academy in Bavaria, Mandlstraße 23, 80802 Munich

Event language: German

Panel discussion:

Prof. Dr. Winfried Petry
Physicist, former Scientific Director of the Research Reactor (FRM II) at the Technical University of Munich

Dr. Alexander Roth
Affiliate Fellow, Think Tank Bruegel, Brussels

Prof. Dr. Markus Vogt
Professor of Christian Social Ethics at Ludwig Maximilian University, Munich

Moderation:

Dr. Martin Dabrowski
Head of Studies in Economics, Social Ethics and Media, Catholic Academy of Bavaria, Munich

Following the panel discussion, we warmly invite you to continue the conversation over drinks and snacks.