Italy Returns to Nuclear After 40-Year Hiatus

After a 40-year hiatus, Italy is poised to reintroduce nuclear power to its energy mix. The Italian Senate recently approved a government plan to restart nuclear generation, marking a significant shift in the nation's approach to energy production. This decision comes after a referendum in 1987 led to the closure of Italy's reactors, following the Chernobyl nuclear accident in 1986.

The last reactor shut down in 1990, and a 2011 referendum saw over 90% of Italians opposing new nuclear power plants. The government's motivation for reconsidering nuclear energy is rooted in the disruptions caused by conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, which have rattled energy supply chains and led to growing support for nuclear power as a solution.

Italy's energy expenditures on imports have also contributed to the government's financial strain, with electricity rates soaring by about 80% in the past year. Currently, Italy relies heavily on fossil fuels, with natural gas and petroleum accounting for roughly 80% of its total energy supply, while renewables make up the remaining 20%.

Electricity demand is projected to increase in the coming years due to global trends such as electrification and the demand for power for artificial intelligence applications. The Italian administration under Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni aims to shield the economy from surging energy prices and reduce dependence on foreign oil supplies by diversifying its energy sources.

The administration is particularly interested in advanced modular reactors and other modern technologies that are considered safer, more flexible, and quicker to construct. However, the reintroduction of nuclear power is met with division among Italians. A recent poll indicated that 51% supported the restart of nuclear power generation, yet a majority opposed the construction of new plants near their communities.

Additionally, Italy currently lacks a permanent national repository for radioactive waste from its previous nuclear program, leading to temporary storage at various sites. European countries are actively investing in new reactors, life extensions, and small modular reactors to ensure energy independence and meet climate targets.

France remains Europe's leading nuclear energy producer, constructing two new EPR2 reactors and investing significantly in small-scale startup technology. Hungary, Slovakia, Czechia, and Romania are also expanding their nuclear capacities and developing small modular reactor projects.