Italy returns to nuclear energy after 40 years!
The bill prepared by the government led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was approved by the Senate and became law.
Italy has taken an important step toward returning to nuclear energy. A bill prepared by the government led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was approved by the Senate and became law. The new law gives the government the authority to establish regulations concerning nuclear energy, fusion research and radioactive waste management. The bill was passed in the Senate with 81 votes in favor and 51 against.
Italy abandoned nuclear energy following a referendum in 1987 and shut down its nuclear power plants in 1990. In a 2011 referendum, the decision to prevent a return to nuclear energy was also maintained. The new law creates a legal framework for a potential nuclear program. The government is particularly considering the use of next-generation small reactors. Meloni said the goal is to strengthen energy security and reduce dependence on foreign energy. The law also provides for new rules on safety, licensing, radioactive waste management and cooperation with local communities. The move marks a significant change in Italy’s energy policy, bringing nuclear energy back onto the agenda after a long hiatus.