Italy eyes nuclear power comeback by 2035
Senate approval of Italy's atomic bill is expected within days.
Italy may resume nuclear electricity generation by 2035, according to Energy Minister Gilberto Pichetto Fratin. The country abandoned nuclear power following a 1987 referendum sparked by the Chernobyl disaster, with the last plants shutting down in 1990. Recent geopolitical uncertainties and Europe's high electricity costs are prompting a re-evaluation.
A landmark bill to revive nuclear energy is expected to be approved by the senate soon, after passing the lower house in June. Pichetto Fratin argues that Italy's heavy reliance on foreign energy supplies makes nuclear power critical for national security. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's administration aims to boost industry competitiveness through energy independence.
The European Commission has proposed accelerating small modular reactor development. Italy's approach focuses on these reactors, which could be constructed in three to four years and operational by 2034 or 2035. The bill will establish rules for independent nuclear safety, waste management, and a national repository. Private companies, including Enel, Ansaldo Energia, and Leonardo, are evaluating nuclear technologies.
French firm EDF has also expressed interest. Critics argue nuclear power could divert funds from renewables and cite recent disruptions in France and Romania. Despite opposition, the government believes the new legislation will gain public support, especially as younger generations are less ideologically driven against nuclear energy.
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