Centre of excellence for radiation protection in power network expansion

Dr. Inge Paulini, Präsidentin des Bundesamts für Strahlenschutz (BfS)

The open-ended and independent clarification of open research questions is for precautionary reasons an indispensable accompaniment to the expansion of the power network. This is the conclusion drawn by participants of the launch event on 11 July 2017 in Berlin for the research programme "Radiation protection in power network expansion". Around 80 representatives from science, politics, companies and citizens' initiatives discussed the 18 million euro research package from the Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BfS). It was repeatedly highlighted that the BfS was taking on an important role as a centre of excellence for radiation protection in the expansion of the power network.

Discussion: "Radiation protection and power network expansion: a contradiction?"

Lecture topics included risk perception within the population

At the conclusion of the event, Dr. Christian Bornkessel (Commission on Radiological Protection), Dr. Arne Genz (Federal Ministry for the Economy and Energy), PD Dr. Michaela Kreuzer (Federal Office for Radiation Protection), Oliver Leuker (Ultranet Action Alliance) and Eberhard Schühle (Network technology/Network operation forum in VDE [German Electricians Association]) discussed with participants the question of "Radiation protection and power network expansion: a contradiction?".

Radiation protection is not contradictory to the expansion of the power network but is far more a significant component, was the unanimous response. The promptest and most comprehensive answering of the as yet open questions about the health effects of power network expansion is therefore essential. The BfS research programme accompanying the expansion of the power network forms the basis for improved risk assessment and communication. Presupposing comprehensive funding, the research programme is to be completed within 6 years.

Participation on the internet

The research programme is a first step in the expansion of the BfS as a centre of excellence for radiation protection in the expansion of the power network. In addition to the input of participants at the launch event, comments from citizens are also requested.

Up to and including 15 September 2017, there is the opportunity to evaluate and comment on the research programme and the individual topic areas. The comments are to be evaluated by experts at the BfS; the results will be published online and are to be considered in the further planning of the research programme.