Value of nuclear recognised by EU, concrete actions now needed
Brussels, 13 June 2025: Published today, the Nuclear Illustrative Programme (PINC) estimates that by 2050, large nuclear reactors (both long-term operation of the existing fleet and new build) will account for 109GW of installed nuclear capacity in the EU. Achieving this will require investments of around €241 billion. In addition, Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Advanced Modular Rectors (AMRs) could provide up to an additional 53GW in installed capacity.
“We are delighted to see the Commission recognise the multitude of benefits which nuclear brings to Europe, from energy to medical applications, as well as its strategic role as a European net zero value chain” indicates nucleareurope Director General, Emmanuel Brutin. “Furthermore, it makes clear that nuclear can bring benefits to the energy system by helping to reduce total system costs alongside renewables, as it supports grid stability and integration1. However, the EU now needs to put in place a clear action plan covering policies and financing mechanisms which will help deliver on planned investments. It must also ensure a technology neutral approach across all policies” he adds.
From a financing perspective, the Commission underlines the importance of combining diverse sources of financing and de-risking instruments and refers to the potential for Power Purchase Agreements, and a model based on the Regulated Asset Base. In this respect, we look forward to working with the Commission on identify the different EU funds and financing mechanisms which can complement national support. Furthermore, streamlining of the State Aid process for nuclear will also help speed up the deployment of projects.
According to the PINC, Europe continues to have a strong nuclear value chain. At the same time, given plans for new nuclear capacity, the European nuclear supply chain will need to ramp up and become more resilient in order to meet new demand. This also goes hand in hand with ensuring a skilled nuclear workforce. On this, we look forward to working with the Commission on ways to stimulate the deployment of the supply chain in Europe.
The Commission also draws attention to the fact that nuclear is not just about electricity, by highlighting its potential to provide decarbonised heat for district heating purposes as well as to hard-to-abate sectors. As noted, Europe is global leader in radioisotope production, but EU support will need to tackle the ageing of EU research for medical diagnosis and treatment.
Click here to view our position paper issued in May.
About us: nucleareurope is the Brussels-based trade association for the nuclear energy industry in Europe.
The membership of nucleareurope is made up of 15 national nuclear associations (EU + Switzerland, UK and Ukraine) and through these associations, nucleareurope represents nearly 3,000 European companies working in the industry and supporting around 1,100,000 jobs.
More information:
- Jessica Johnson, Communications and Advocacy Director: jessica.johnson@nucleareurope.eu
