nucleareurope details nuclear sector growth scenarios at SET Plan conference

On 4 November 2025, nucleareurope Communications and Advocacy Director Jessica Johnson participated in the 19th Strategic Energy Technology (SET) Plan conference, co-organised by the European Commission and the Danish Ministry of Climate, Energy and Utilities in Odense, Denmark. The event provided a platform for industrial stakeholders and policymakers to discuss the future of the European energy system.

As part of the conference, Jessica participated in a parallel session entitled ‘Nuclear Solutions for Europe’s Affordable and Inclusive Needs’, which tackled the question of nuclear’s role in Europe’s energy system. She specifically discussed current and projected developments for the nuclear sector, as well as potential challenges.

“Installed nuclear capacity is projected to grow from approximately 100 Gigawatts (GW) today to nearly 150 GW by 2050. This represents important investments in long-term operation of existing power plants, as well as large and small new build. It also highlights that nuclear is set to keep playing a key role in the future European energy system” highlighted Jessica, noting some challenges faced by the industry, on questions related to financing, supply chain and skills.

Jessican then stressed the importance of a stable, technology neutral policy framework which tackles these challenges to support investments in nuclear projects. She added that policies which guarantee access to funds for nuclear and provide enabling conditions for the growth of the European nuclear supply chain will be key for energy security and independence.

Concluding her intervention, Jessica discussed the importance of public acceptance. She noted that proactive and inclusive stakeholder engagement is essential to develop the attractiveness of nuclear projects, including from a skills and workforce perspective.