Regulatory aspects of decommissioning in the Federal Republic of Germany

In the Federal Republic of Germany, there are 15 nuclear power plants shut down finally. The projects are briefly described. Licensing for decommissioning was performed on the basis of existing regulations. The existing regulatory framework has specific prescriptions concerning decommissioning, but delays in recent licensing procedures indicate the need for extensions. It is planned to amend the Atomic Energy Act to a modern Environmental Protection Act. Existing regulations and planned improvements are discussed. Recent changes in regulation concern the issue of exemption levels. The German policy in this field is explained. Finally, the issue of decommissioning waste is addressed. (author) 16 refs.; 1 fig.; 2 tabs