Italian bill on nuclear energy progressing through parliament

5 hours ago

Italy's Council of Ministers approved a bill in October 2023 delegating nuclear energy reintroduction to the government, aiming for sustainable nuclear power within European decarbonization by 2050 and energy security goals.
The bill includes developing a National Programme for Sustainable Nuclear Power, establishing an independent Nuclear Safety Authority, and enhancing research, skills, and public awareness campaigns.
The Chamber of Deputies passed the bill with 155 votes in favor, and it now moves to the Senate for expected final approval before the July summer recess; implementing decrees must be adopted within 12 months.
Italy phased out nuclear power after the 1986 Chernobyl accident, closing its last plants in 1990, and halted plans again after the 2011 Fukushima accident, with 94% of voters rejecting new reactors in a 2011 poll.
Public opinion has since shifted, with Parliament approving a motion in May 2023 to consider nuclear in the energy mix, and the National Platform for Sustainable Nuclear Power held its first meeting in September 2023 to define a timeline for resumption.

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