yepp_press_release_fukushima%2c25march2011
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http://youthepp.eu/sites/default/files/YEPP_press_release_Fukushima%2C25March2011.pdfTRANSCRIPT
YEPP calls for the harmonization of highest nuclear safety standards
Following the disaster in Fukushima, the Youth of the European People's Party calls
on Member States to harmonize and implement the highest nuclear safety standards at
Europe's nuclear power plants. The centre-right youth organization at the same time
calls on the European Commission to thoroughly examine the implications of the
accident on the European energy markets, with special regard to possible price
increases and the shift in the energy mix.
YEPP views that the accident might trigger a significant increase in prices of gas and
electricity supply, as well as on CO2 markets, especially if Member States initiate
nuclear decommissioning programs or cancel previously planned nuclear investments.
With a possible decline in the use of nuclear energy, the supply gap might be filled
either by traditional fossil fuels or renewable sources. The European Commission and
the Member States should update their energy strategies so that the low-carbon
pathway could prevail.
Since a significant share of electricity production comes from nuclear sources in the
European Union, any change in measures aimed at a change of the energy mix should
be implemented under the greatest caution. Especially, taken into account, that energy
prices largely affect the EU's much desired economic recovery.
The board of YEPP
Brussels, 25 March 2011