Markus Söder is calling for a return to nuclear power, presenting himself as a champion of modern reactor technology. He justifies this by citing an allegedly existing Small Modular Reactor in Canada, using it as an argument for new nuclear power in Germany. However, this claim does not stand up to scrutiny. Not a single commercially viable reactor of this type exists in Canada. Instead, Söder refers to an old research reactor from 1959. This very inaccuracy demonstrates how the Bavarian Minister-President handles a complex issue. He is attempting to gain attention with modern buzzwords, but is quite obviously not adequately informed. (zeit: 06.12.25)
Reactor Technology Requires Expertise, Not Buzzwords
Modern nuclear technology is evolving. China, in particular, demonstrates this with concrete projects. Since 2024, the TMSR-LF1, an experimental thorium reactor in the Gobi Desert, has been operating at full capacity. This molten salt reactor uses molten salts, is considered safer, and produces less long-lived waste. China is combining this reactor technology with its extensive domestic raw material reserves, thereby pursuing long-term energy policy goals. This development represents serious research, not political maneuvering.
Söder makes no mention of such progress. Instead, he resorts to simplistic imagery. For him, nuclear power appears as a readily available short-term solution. This oversimplification harms the debate about new reactor technology because it creates illusions.
Canada as a false symbol
The Canadian reactor mentioned by Markus Söder is a university research project. It does not generate electricity. It serves medicine and science. This facility has nothing in common with modern nuclear energy. Nevertheless, Söder uses it as proof of functioning Small Modular Reactors. These mini-reactors, which several companies worldwide are developing, exist largely only as concepts on paper or as development prototypes.
A state premier should be aware of this difference. Söder’s statements, however, reveal a lack of research. For him, reactor technology appears as a political buzzword, not as a precisely defined term.
Progress yes, simplification no
Looking at China shows how nuanced the discussion about new nuclear power must be. The thorium reactor there provides data and experience, but not industrial mass production. Research is still in its early stages. Small Modular Reactors are also still in the development phase. This applies to Europe as well as the USA.
Söder ignores this reality. He speaks about nuclear energy as if the next power plant construction were imminent. This portrayal overestimates the state of the art and underestimates the importance of a sound assessment.
Populism as a Risk
Söder’s approach follows a familiar pattern. Complex topics appear greatly simplified. Terms like reactor technology or nuclear power serve as a projection screen. Technical depth is lacking. So is preparation. This behavior appears opportunistic and populist.
Precisely because new reactor technology has potential, it requires objective communication. Those who call for modernization must distinguish between research, prototypes, and marketable solutions. The Bavarian Minister-President fails to do so.
Real Opportunities Require Credibility
New nuclear technology offers options. Thorium reactors and molten salt concepts open up new perspectives. Small Modular Reactors remain a topic for the future. These developments deserve a constructive debate. Populist oversimplifications harm this discussion.
If Markus Söder continues to argue with inaccurate examples, he not only damages his own credibility. He also weakens trust in a technology that can only be evaluated with expertise and honesty.