Italy to reintroduce nuclear power by 2030
ROME — Nearly three decades after Italy turned its back on it, nuclear power is making a comeback in the country, as the government sets its sights on reintroducing it by 2030 to tackle energy security and meet ambitious decarbonisation goals.
Italy is on track to reintroduce nuclear energy by 2030, marking a significant shift in national energy policy. Environment and Energy Security Minister Gilberto Pichetto Fratin reinforced the government’s commitment, stating that “by 2030, we will have nuclear power in Italy, I am convinced.”
The Italian Council of Ministers approved a plan on Friday to revive nuclear power, reversing the anti-nuclear stance solidified by referendums in 1987 and 2011.
Pichetto Fratin stressed that this initiative marks a clear departure from previous nuclear programmes. “We are looking at fusion and new-generation fission with completely different tools compared to large-scale nuclear plants of the past,” he stated.
The decision is part of Italy’s broader strategy to strengthen energy security and meet decarbonisation targets outlined in the National Integrated Energy and Climate Plan (Pniec).
Under this framework, nuclear energy is expected to contribute between 11% and 22% of the country’s electricity supply by 2050. Government projections suggest this shift could save up to €17 billion in decarbonisation costs by mid-century.
The strategy focuses on advanced technologies, including Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), microreactors, and fourth-generation fission technology. The plan also includes investments in nuclear fusion, reflecting a long-term commitment to sustainable energy development.
To accelerate implementation, the Council of Ministers has approved an enabling law that will be submitted to Parliament for final approval. Minister of Environment and Energy Security Gilberto Pichetto Fratin has indicated that a comprehensive debate is expected, and expressed hope for the law’s approval by autumn or year-end.
If approved, the government will have 12 months to draft and enact legislative decrees regulating the entire nuclear energy cycle, from research and site selection to plant construction and nuclear fuel recycling.
Despite this ambitious timeline, the nuclear revival presents major challenges, particularly regarding plant locations and radioactive waste management. The government plans to establish a centralized nuclear waste repository and evaluate the decommissioning or potential repurposing of former nuclear sites. An independent regulatory authority will also be created to oversee safety and compliance.
(Alessia Peretti | Euractiv.it)