06/25/2014, 17:45
| Ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR
Lausanne - Alpiq takes note of the revised Ordinance on the Decommissioning and Waste Disposal Funds (SEFV). As a consequence of this revision, the Gösgen (KKG) and Leibstadt (KKL) nuclear power plants will have to pay higher contributions into the funds. Alpiq holds a 40 percent interest in KKG and a 32.4 percent interest in KKL.
The revised Ordinance on the Decommissioning and Waste Disposal Funds that will go into force on 1 January 2015 results in higher yearly contributions to the funds for the nuclear power plant operators. Alpiq understands the reasons for adaptation of individual parameters to calculate contributions, for example, the extension of the contribution obligation period. Alpiq will fully meet its obligation to make available sufficient funds for decommissioning and waste disposal. The company considers a fixed uncertainty allowance of 30 percent as too high. In principle, there is no need for an uncertainty allowance since the current contribution system, similar to that of pension funds, has proven to be effective with both funds on target. Due to the uncertainty allowance put into force by the Swiss government, the Gösgen and Leibstadt nuclear power plants will have to pay higher contributions into the funds, which will result in considerable additional financing needs.
Anticipated costs for decommissioning and disposal of nuclear power plants are calculated every five years based on technical planning data. This system is functioning and has proven to be reliable. It ensures that funds for decommissioning and disposal are available when a plant is shutdown. In applying the precautionary and polluter pays principles, future generations will not have to bear uncovered costs. Furthermore, according to the Nuclear Energy Act, nuclear power plant operators must fully cover costs for decommissioning and disposal in all cases. The revision of the ordinance as decided by the Federal Council does not change this fact.