Von der Leyen calls Europe’s nuclear phase-down a “strategic mistake” and announces EU support for new nuclear technologies
The Facts
- European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said reducing Europe’s nuclear energy sector (or turning away from nuclear power) was a “strategic mistake.”
- Von der Leyen made the remarks at a nuclear energy summit/event in or near Paris.
- Von der Leyen said nuclear provided about one-third of Europe’s electricity in 1990 and that the share has fallen to about 15% today.
- Von der Leyen said Europe is “completely dependent” on imported fossil fuels that are “expensive and volatile,” and that this dependence creates a disadvantage compared with other regions.
- Von der Leyen linked Europe’s energy vulnerability to the ongoing Middle East conflict/war involving Iran, which has contributed to an energy crunch and/or rising prices.
- Von der Leyen said the EU would support investment in “innovative nuclear technologies” with a €200 million guarantee.
Context
What did von der Leyen say was the strategic mistake?
She said Europe’s political choice to reduce the share of nuclear power—turning away from what she described as a reliable, affordable, low-emissions source of electricity—was a “strategic mistake.” Reuters Reuters
What figures did she cite about nuclear power’s role in Europe’s electricity mix?
Von der Leyen said nuclear generated about one-third of Europe’s electricity in 1990, but that the share has fallen to around 15% today. Reuters Bloomberg Business
What concrete EU support did she announce for nuclear technology?
She said the EU would create a €200 million guarantee to support investment in innovative nuclear technologies, including efforts related to small modular reactors. timesofmalta.com Anadolu Ajansı
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