Explosives have rarely been used in decommissioning of nuclear reactors. Nevertheless, controlled blasting can be used advantageously during careful destruction of nuclear power plants for removal of concrete, pipe systems, and other components. Experiments performed within a former nuclear power plant demonstrate the feasibility of this method, employing explosive masses up to 15 kg per blast. The loadings of the components and the total plant structure were measured and compared with code predictions. The experiments show a response of the containment predominantly in frequency ranges above 100 Hz, thus keeping the building and components below German regulation limits for shock excitation. The blast wave pressures are reduced drastically within short distances in the building. Dust and debris can be contained with simple methods such as curtains. Use of this method seems to be applicable to actual dismantling projects, as foreseen in the Federal Republic of Germany and the United Kingdom.