Nuclear Technology's Role in EU Climate Goals

At the inaugural Nuclear Energy Summit in March, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the potential of nuclear technologies in facilitating clean energy transitions. Acknowledging the diverse opinions within the EU regarding nuclear power, she noted that projections from the International Energy Agency and the European Commission indicate a future where nuclear energy will complement renewable sources, which are expected to dominate EU power production by 2050. Despite a global decline in nuclear energy's share of the electricity mix, the European Nuclear Alliance, formed in 2023, is advocating for increased financing and equal treatment of nuclear energy alongside renewables. The alliance's statement following the summit highlighted the need to leverage all net-zero technologies, including nuclear energy, to meet climate goals and enhance energy security. Von der Leyen also suggested extending the operational lifespan of existing nuclear plants, provided safety standards are met, as a cost-effective strategy for large-scale clean energy production. However, opposition remains, particularly from countries like Germany and Denmark, which are pushing for nuclear plant closures. Innovative developments in nuclear technology are underway, with Dutch start-up Thorizon receiving a €10 million grant from the French government to develop a small modular reactor that utilizes nuclear waste as fuel. Additionally, French electricity group EDF has signed a cooperation agreement in Italy to promote nuclear energy's role in decarbonizing the steel industry, marking a significant shift for a country that has not utilized nuclear power for nearly 35 years. The European Commission has also approved a €2 billion grant for a new reactor in Petten, Netherlands, further underscoring the renewed interest in nuclear energy across Europe.