Romania bets on long shot ‘baby nukes’ as coal cliff edge looms

illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on Politico or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: Romania is pioneering the development of small modular reactors (SMRs) on the site of a former coal power plant, aiming to revitalize its economy, create jobs, and reduce emissions
• This initiative is part of a broader European interest in nuclear power as a clean energy alternative, especially following energy security concerns triggered by Russia's invasion of Ukraine

🔭 The context: The project represents a significant shift for Romania, which seeks to transition from coal-based energy to nuclear power by installing six advanced miniature reactors
• These reactors are expected to generate up to 300 megawatts each, suitable for local grids and potentially replacing coal plants across Eastern Europe
• The European Commission is supporting the technology to strengthen the EU's clean tech industry against global competitors

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: SMRs could help the EU achieve its climate goals by providing a low-emission energy source that complements intermittent renewable energies like wind and solar
• Successful deployment could lead to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and foster a clean energy transition in coal-dependent regions

⏭️ What's next: The Romanian government aims to operationalize at least one of the planned reactors by 2030, amidst challenges such as unproven technology and the need for significant investment

💬 One quote: “We are on a fast track to moving off of coal,” (Sebastian Burduja, Romania’s Energy Minister)

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