Status report on the use of nuclear energy in the Federal Republic of Germany 2004

This report describes the present use of nuclear energy in the Federal Republic of Germany as of December, 2004. It contains the essential data of all nuclear power plants, research reactors with a continuous thermal power larger than 50 kW and the facilities of the nuclear fuel cycle. At the reporting moment 31st of December in 2004, 18 nuclear power plants were in operation. With 167,1 TWh (in 2003 - 165,1 TWh) altogether they provided 27,5 % (2003: 27,4 %) of the total gross electricity production (incl. electricity transfers). The report summarizes the essential operational results of the nuclear power plants and information on granted licenses. A short description of the present state of the nuclear power plants that have been shut down or decommissioned and of the stopped projects is given. Concerning research reactors with a continuous thermal power larger than 50th kW, essential data on type, characteristics (thermal power, thermal neutron flux) and purpose of the facility are represented. Furthermore, an overview about the licensing and operation history and the present state of the operating condition is given. For the facilities of the nuclear fuel cycle data on purpose and capacity, the licensing history and the present state of operation and licensing are given. To give a survey, the data are summarized in tabular form in the report annexes. The report will be updated and published once a year. Essential events having occurred during the editorial time until April 2005 have been taken into account as far as possible. (orig.)