Maintenance of nuclear competence under the perspective of the nuclear phase-out in Germany

Full text: The situation of nuclear energy in Germany is characterized by the phase-out policy pursued by the current government, which means that the last German nuclear power plant will run until about 2022. The actions taken to nevertheless maintain the nuclear competence needed in Germany are shown. Then the role of the 'Alliance for Competence in Nuclear Technology' in bundling the current publicly funded research and teaching activities is explained. The strategic goals of the Alliance include support of qualified young scientists, enhanced cooperation with universities and support of international initiatives (e.g. ENEN, WNU etc.). To stabilize fundamental education in nuclear technology, the Alliance has established a regional 'adoption concept' in cooperation with German utilities, manufacturers, and nuclear technology training and research institutions. (author)