EUROPE’S PRO-NUCLEAR LEADERS SEEK ATOMIC ENERGY REVIVAL However, EU countries remain divided on whether to promote nuclear energy
Leaders from pro-nuclear European countries and energy experts are set to call for a nuclear energy revival at a summit in Brussels, seeking to rebuild the European industry after years of gradual decline.
The political push to expand nuclear – a low-carbon energy source – is part of the drive to meet Europe’s ambitious climate targets. But it faces headwinds including a lack of investment and cost overruns and delays that have plagued recent projects.
The need is driven by the European Union’s commitment to cut net greenhouse gas emissions 55% by 2030 has forced renewed interest in nuclear power despite the issue of nuclear waste.
However, EU countries remain divided on whether to promote nuclear energy, with two entrenched camps – one led by France which believes nuclear expansion is crucial, and the other including anti-nuclear countries Austria and Germany, who want the focus to stay on renewable sources such as wind and solar.