The European Union plans to invest approximately €241 billion in the development of nuclear energy by 2050 to support energy security, competitiveness and decarbonisation. This is stated in the illustrative forecast report of the European Commission PINC, published on the website of the European institution.
These funds will be used to extend the operation of existing nuclear facilities and to build new large reactors, develop small modular reactors (SMR) and advanced technologies, including fusion.
“For some EU Member States, nuclear power is a critical component of the energy mix. It contributes to decarbonisation, supports industrial competitiveness and guarantees strategic autonomy,” the document says.
Forecast: 90% of electricity from clean sources
By 2040, more than 90% of electricity in the EU will be generated from decarbonised sources, where nuclear power will play a complementary role alongside renewables. Nuclear power capacity in the EU will increase from 98 GW in 2025 to 109 GW in 2050.
The European Commission emphasises the need to guarantee nuclear safety, responsible nuclear waste management and independence from unreliable nuclear fuel suppliers.
The report will be presented at the EU Energy Ministerial Council on 16 June.
