Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is moving forward with an ambitious plan to bring nuclear energy back to Italy after nearly four decades without active reactors, in a decision that the government considers essential to ensure energy sovereignty, reduce costs, and strengthen the Italian economy in the face of international crises.
Italy officially abandoned nuclear energy after the 1987 referendum held following the Chernobyl disaster. However, in recent years, the country has become increasingly exposed to dependence on imported gas and international energy volatility, especially after the war between Russia and Ukraine. Currently, nearly half of Italy's electricity still depends on natural gas, one of the highest rates in Europe.
In light of this scenario, Meloni argues that the return of nuclear energy represents a long-term strategic solution to ensure energy stability and reduce Italy's economic vulnerability. The government plans to approve a new legal framework by the end of the year that will enable the development of modern nuclear reactors and small modular plants.
The Italian focus is particularly on the so-called Small Modular Reactors (SMR), which are much smaller, safer, and more efficient than the old nuclear plants built during the 20th century. These new technologies promise lower operational risks, faster construction times, and a significant reduction in radioactive waste.
