Power plants will come, power plants will go. Renewable energy sources in the context of nuclear phase-out

In the controversy over nuclear phase-out and its possible revision, climate protection and rising electricity rates are regularly brought forward as arguments. While those who favour nuclear power state that CO2 emissions would increase without nuclear power plants, opponents claim that these capacities may be replaced by renewable energy sources. The contribution picks up the issue and raises up to the next higher level by showing that nuclear phase-out will result in higher CO2 emissions and higher electricity rates even though the national emission goals may be met. Details are presented to show why this must be so. (orig.)