The European Union is turning to small modular reactors (SMRs) as part of its strategy to reach climate neutrality by 2050 and ensure stable electricity supplies when renewables fall short.
The European Commission says the next generation of compact nuclear reactors could provide low-carbon power and heat while helping heavy industries such as steel and chemicals decarbonise. The EU hopes the first SMRs could be rolled out in the early 2030s.
But the plan remains controversial. Environmental groups and several countries warn the technology is still unproven, expensive and carries safety and waste concerns compared to rapidly expanding renewable energy.
Countries including Austria, Ireland and Portugal remain sceptical, while others are backing what they call a nuclear revival. Eleven EU states, including France, Poland and Sweden, have already pledged closer cooperation to develop SMRs and extend the life of existing reactors.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said Europe made a “strategic mistake” by reducing its reliance on nuclear energy, arguing the bloc needs it as part of a balanced, low-carbon energy system.
via Euronews
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