German leaders vow better cooperation on energy transition after much-criticized start

BERLIN – German leaders have vowed to improve coordination of the country's transition from nuclear to renewable energy after a sluggish and much-criticized start to the switchover.

Chancellor Angela Merkel met Friday with the nation's 16 state governors. She said they will enhance coordination to ensure a steady power supply, a continuing renewable energy expansion and affordable electricity prices.

Germany decided last year to phase out nuclear power by 2022 and replace it with wind, solar and other renewable energies. Critics say the ambitious plan has fallen behind schedule because of a lack of coordination and oversight.

Thuringia state governor Christine Lieberknecht said all governments must now work together on the transition plan because "we cannot have 16 states with 16 energy switchovers."