Italy Plans Return to Nuclear Power with New Framework Law

Rome: Premier Giorgia Meloni’s government is actively developing a framework law to facilitate Italy’s re-entry into the nuclear energy sector, sources revealed on Thursday. This legislative move marks a significant shift in Italy’s energy policy, aiming to reintroduce nuclear power after its abandonment decades ago.

According to Ansa News Agency, the proposed bill is anticipated to gain cabinet approval by the end of this month. A central feature of the legislation is the creation of a nuclear control agency, which will oversee the reintroduction of nuclear energy in the country. Italy stopped using nuclear power after a referendum in the aftermath of the Chernobyl disaster, but the government now plans to utilize small, advanced reactors to revive atomic energy.

Premier Meloni expressed optimism about the future of nuclear energy during her speech at the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week event. She emphasized that the progress in nuclear fusion could potentially change historical energy dynamics. Meloni highlighted the importance of balancing sustainability with innovation to drive the energy transition and digitalization. She advocated for a diversified energy mix, incorporating not only renewables but also other technologies like gas, biofuels, green hydrogen, and carbon capture. Furthermore, she underscored the transformative potential of nuclear fusion in producing clean and safe energy, which could democratize energy access and reduce its use as a geopolitical tool.