Meloni seeks to bring nuclear power back to Italy

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🗞️ Driving the news: Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government plans to reintroduce nuclear energy 35 years after shutting down its last atomic plant, aiming to lower carbon emissions
• Environment Minister Gilberto Pichetto Fratin announced legislation for small modular reactors, expected to be operational within 10 years
• Nuclear power is projected to account for 11% of Italy's electricity by 2050

🔭 The context: Italy abandoned nuclear power after the 1986 Chernobyl disaster, confirmed by a 2011 referendum
• Current skepticism persists, with a survey showing 75% doubting nuclear energy as a solution, though safety improvements may sway opinion
• Previous attempts to restart the program were unsuccessful, but the government remains confident in overcoming public aversion

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Nuclear energy can significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to lower carbon emissions and enhancing energy security
• The Meloni government's plan also reflects broader concerns over the sustainability and security of renewable energy sources, particularly solar power, which faces supply chain dependencies and land use conflicts

⏭️ What's next: Legislation to facilitate investments in nuclear technology will be introduced, with a focus on small modular reactors
• Public perception campaigns and technological advancements are crucial for overcoming historical skepticism
• The government will also continue balancing the expansion of renewable energy with environmental and aesthetic considerations

💬 One quote: "To have a guarantee of continuity on clean energy, we must insert a quota of nuclear energy," said Environment Minister Gilberto Pichetto Fratin

📈 One stat: In a recent survey by Legambiente, 37% of respondents said nuclear power could help Italy if the technology was safer

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