EU Shifts Focus To Small Modular Reactors

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is advocating for 200 million euros in support for energy independence through nuclear power. Currently, only 12 of the 27 EU member states operate active nuclear power plants. Countries including Poland and Estonia are reportedly evaluating the adoption of small modular reactors for future energy needs. European Union officials are engaged in intense debates regarding the role of nuclear energy 40 years after the Chernobyl disaster. Green EU MEP Jutta Paulus noted that despite previous assumptions that nuclear power was too expensive and uninsurable, debates are currently running at full speed. The discussion centers on whether nuclear technology remains a viable component of the energy mix. The average age of approximately 100 active reactors is a central point of the ongoing political discourse. This initiative follows years of underfunding and investment. The strategy said the need to turn the tide and leverage existing resources for nuclear energy. Electricity production in the EU fell from one-third to less than 15%. Economic viability for these reactors depends on mass production to avoid higher costs than traditional nuclear power plants.