Italy to finalise strategy for nuclear power reintroduction by 2027

Italy plans to finalise a strategy for the reintroduction of nuclear power by the end of 2027, as reported by Reuters. Energy Minister Gilberto Pichetto Fratin revealed the plan in an interview with Il Sole 24 Ore. 

The current government, under Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, is considering small modular reactors (SMRs) and advanced modular reactors to decarbonise carbon-intensive industries like steel, glass, and tile production.

Despite the 1987 and 2011 referendums banning nuclear power plants, the government is now working on new regulations to integrate nuclear technologies. Fratin stated that nuclear power will complement, not replace, renewable energy sources, contributing to a balanced and sustainable energy mix.

A first draft law is expected for cabinet approval by early February, with legislation for new technologies targeted for early 2025 and parliamentary approval in the same year.

Incorporating nuclear power could save Italy €17 billion ($17.7 billion) in decarbonisation costs by 2050, with projections that nuclear could provide up to 22% of Italy’s energy.

Enel and Eni are already involved in nuclear initiatives, with Enel operating nuclear plants in Spain and exploring advanced technologies through partnerships with companies such as Westinghouse and EDF.