Criteria for siting nuclear power plants in densely populated and industrialized country. Future trends in the Federal Republic of Germany

A synopsis is given of legal regulations, guidelines and other evaluations concerning the selection, evaluation and licensing of sites for nuclear power plants in the Federal Republic of Germany. Examples are given to show how unfavourable attributes of sites can be compensated for by additional technical measures in the plant, site restrictions and emergency measures in the vicinity. The use of such measures as greater distance as a strong barrier are not practicable in the highly populated and industrialized Federal Republic. To minimize the residual risk of damage by severe accident, additional technical measures in the plant are envisaged. The need for reaching agreement between neighbouring countries on equivalent standards in border areas, is discussed. (author)